Exhibited during the fall of 2019 as commissioned by ArtPrize for its inaugural Project One, Critical Infrastructure is an accessible, open-air pavilion that functions as both architecture and art. Using common materials and construction methods we created a welcoming place for everyone.
Architecture, Construction & Design Awards 2020
Second Award | Pop-ups and Temporary
Project Name: Critical Infrastructure
Studio Name: Lott3Metz Architecture
Design Team: Ted Lott, Paul Amenta, DisArt
Year: 2019
Location: Grand Rapids, MI; USA
Consultants: JDH Engineering (Structural Engineering); KBOgroup (Audio/Visual)
Photography Credits: Fillipo Tagliati, Grant Carmichael, Paul Amenta
Using projections, amplified sounds, and individual interpreters; we were able to move beyond the rote math of an ADA ramp and create a space that welcomed people of all abilities to not only be in the space but to appreciate the various programming with a freedom of access that few performance spaces allow. The project served as an armature facilitating dynamic programming and community engagement – a stage for disability art events, a platform for artists, and a social gathering space for the community.
The design and construction process was fluid with configurations and details changing frequently: reacting to the existing conditions exposed during a painstaking demolition process of the original buildings and the specific art installations located in the buildings and around Critical Infrastructure.
Conceived as a temporary work, Critical Infrastructure opened for the seven weeks 2019’s Project. The project will be demolished in 2020 with all of the building materials slated for reuse in upcoming local affordable housing projects.
“It seems to me that the design of the space is driven by the concept of accessibility: here the essence of the space seems to be about total accessibility.”
“I saw it for the first time last night and it really took my breath away. The poetry of the space really speaks to me.”
Dan Cameron – Curator XIII Edition at Bienal de Cuenca; Artistic Director Open Spaces KC
