We toured the building with two of the architects from the local
architecture firm who collaborated on the project. The project was more
complex, and the central atrium space that has been so widely
published, was warmer and more inviting than I expected. The site plan
was the key to winning the project according to the local architects.
The simple box of performance and convention spaces fronts onto the
central business district. The now familiar fish-shaped atrium sits
tight against a rail line on one side and on the other side creates an
outdoor gathering space between this atrium and the performance house.
Enclosed bridges connect the ‘fish’ atrium to the performance venues.
The ‘fish’ is a tour de force of structure and light and is truly
beautiful to walk through. It is curious that it is so disconnected
from the theaters and convention spaces; not really serving as a lobby
for either. Its prime role appears to be as an atrium for a small group
of people to pass through to get to the narrow band of small conference
rooms bordering the rail tracks. It also functions as a dramatic light
fixture in the city. The quality of this light-filled space running
alongside the entire outdoor gathering space is what makes the
experience so special day and night. The local architects noted that
Tadao Ando had suggested the ‘fish’ be filled in with glass floors to
make the large atrium more useful–-and profitable.
The theaters are another challenge.
With an understandable desire to have their public entries overlook
the central business district on one side and the outdoor courtyard on
the other, the entry sequence up to the theaters contorts one way, then
another. Ultimately, this sequence is a regrettable let-down compared
to the marvelous ‘fish’. The same can be said for the theaters
themselves, though I suppose one goes to the theater for the show more
than the quality of the space. In the end, the lasting memory is of the
grand spectacle of beautiful architecture in the atrium space. As a
visitor to an event, it is conceivable one might miss this tour de force
and wonder what all the architects are excited about.
Jim Childress, FAIA
Photos courtesy of Jim Childress and Ann Thompson