I'm happiest outside when I'm actually inside.

I am simply amazed by all of the interesting designs that have been put forth at the Venice Biennale of Architecture. The latest that caught my eye is the Japanese Pavilion

“The Japanese Pavilion itself is made to appear as an artificial environment or an element of topography. The original outdoor space overlaps with the space that emerges between the ephemeral steel structures covered with glass, causing the appearance of a doubled, ambiguous space. The condition of space produced here makes us aware that everything in it - the plants inside and outside, the furniture, the architecture, the topography, and the environment - exists simultaneously.” Stolen quote.

Blending and blurring the exterior and interior elements allow the individual to experience space much more organically. During Urban Media Lab, our first few weeks together as a class, we were told to photograph spaces that incorporated elements of the interior into the exterior and elements of the exterior into the interior. This pavilion goes the extra distance to completely blur the distinctions between the two and introduces the notion that distinctions need not exist.  

Living in Winnipeg where frigid temperatures hold our exterior environment hostage, structures much like the KAIT Studio, also designed by Ishigami, limit the separation between the interior and exterior environment and allow for a space that can be temperature controlled. This would allow individuals much like myself, who are reluctant to go outside and experience the environment full force, an opportunity to do just that in the comfort of our own classrooms.

Another perk to designing spaces that work with the existing natural environment, as opposed to against it, is that people are then able to appreciate the environment around them. The idea is that this appreciation will lead them to make more thoughtful choices when it comes to sustainability.