Program: Scenography
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Client: De Krook/Ugent/Imec
Scale: 200 m²
Year: 2020
Status: Project canceled (Laureate competition)
Team: Jason Slabbynck i.c.w. Koen Bovée, Johannes De Bruycker and Stijn Dams
Project description:
The scenographic design consists of dynamically modular units that can be adapted with little effort to a changing exhibition or to the programming of the partners. Throughout the proposal we have looked at the various assignments of the Krook partners and how de Krook can optimally fulfill its task as the knowledge library of the future.
For us, the Krook partners consists of three conceptual layers and three physical movements. In the three different layers and movements, the three Krook partners can give free rein to their one common mission: to become the knowledge library of the future. The three conceptual layers provide incentives that encourage passers-by or future visitors to ask questions, research and curiosity. The three physical movements are about coming together, sharing stories and experiencing the library.
The design focuses on collective learning and thought was given to design the challenge of the library spaces in such a way that we can facilitate the personal interaction that will take place there. Above all, the design must radiate movement.
This fits within the dynamic concept of the library itself: Krook literally means “bending” and the symbolic artwork “De Passanten” by Michael Borremans also refers to the movement. That is why we opt for round shapes and circular elements that enhance the feeling of movement. In short, in our design only modular furniture in a modular arrangement!
We resolutely opt for flexibility in the design, which stimulates functionality, experience and co-creation. The furniture exudes confidence and security through the plump shapes, semi-transparent walls and soft textures. Materials are used that seamlessly match the open character of De Krook, but this design will have its own singular character.
The design stimulates a clear circulation pattern for visitors and can be easily adapted to the most diverse needs; both technical and physical. We want to offer space to the traditional collection but also to the multimedia of the future.
We have chosen to include all the proposed spaces in our design, but we are going a step further ourselves: we want to create a playing field for De Krook in which the modules can be used around the building, on the square and others floors in all their flexibility.
Unlike the ordinary scenography of an exhibition or a museum where the process starts from a scientific research or a collection, we start here from a combination of interior design where form, material and functions are intertwined with those of the libraries general scenography of ‘a’ visitor center .
The Agora will be the center of the library and will continue to function in our design as a kind of microcosm of the city, a meeting place for those who are keen to know.
This is a place where debate and research meet. The agora will be a “questioning center” that offers the possibility to quickly and easily question large groups of people on a wide variety of subjects. Technology and interaction are important but do not take precedence over the privacy, peace and comfort of the visitor.
