SUMMIT
Knoxville, TN
Art Gallery
2022
Software Used: Rhino 7, Illustrator, Photoshop, Enscape
The term "Summit" was chosen to highlight the window contours inspired by the Great Smoky Mountaintops and to honor the legacy of the late Pat Summit, the former head coach of the Lady Vols. The structure features three primary programs designed to enrich the community and enhance its urban setting.
The first program is an art gallery on the ground floor, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling Strip and a welcoming space for creative exploration. The second program, located at the rear of the horizontal structure, is an auditorium designed for art presentations curated by students, Knoxville residents, and others wishing to showcase their work. Finally, an open courtyard, surrounded by modern landscaping and local flora, serves as an exterior program. This courtyard provides a serene contrast to the urban environment, blending natural elements with contemporary design. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces fosters a harmonious atmosphere, inviting visitors to engage with art in diverse and inspiring settings.
The overall views of the space emphasize the dynamic lighting that cuts through the contoured glass at the front and rear, casting intricate shadows and reflections that animate the gallery's interior. The contour of the mountains is echoed on the second floor, creating a platform for additional gallery space that seamlessly integrates with the natural landscape.
The darkened area located below the second floor serves as a medial space, housing the building's mechanical rooms, bathrooms, and offices, efficiently tucked away to maintain the gallery's sleek aesthetic. The interplay between light and shadow and the organic flow of the architectural lines enhance the visual and spatial experience, inviting visitors to explore.
The polished concrete floors reflect the ambient light, adding to the gallery's modern and airy feel. High ceilings adorned with minimalist fixtures contribute to the open, expansive atmosphere, while strategically placed partitions guide visitors through a curated journey of the artworks on display.