"Tempering motion" : Exegesis

Abstract

This design research project challenges Freyberg Pool and Fitness Centre in relation to 'motion of the body': horizontal movement through the water of the pool, lifting and lowering movements in the gym. The project takes a position that by proactively 'Tempering Motion', such a building type can establish a unique architectural identity deriving explicitly from the implications of movement. 'Tempering' refers to achieving strength beyond the original capacity (steel), putting something into perfect tune (pitch), and achieving a balanced condition between two extremes (judgement). 'Tempering Motion' explores how these ideals can be applied to movement (architecturally.implied) as a means of redefining our relationship to interior architecture. As you undress and take off successive layers in this new design for the Freyberg Pool and Fitness Centre you begin to discover an order of rhythmic circulation defined by the linear column paths, the ceiling structure and the repetition of windows. The space unveils a rhythmic structure that has previously not influenced the design of Freyberg establishing a space that is a dynamic interior reflective of the fundamental experience of exercise within this architecture. The central pool establishes a linear north-south ordering device for the expression of implied motion in relation to this central axis. The presence of the moving body in the architecture contrasts with the moving body in the water. The shifting ocean water beyond the building contrasts with the linear interior architecture of the pool within. In response to the central axis, the roof appears to press down near the southern entry threshold, thereby uplifting the roof as it spans northward above the pools. The interior design places a visual 'anchor' at this critical low point to imply that the motion of the roof is in direct response to the interior conditions. The interior design then expands outward toward the sea, moving diagonally along the eastern facade in opposition to the central axis of the pool. The anchoring where the roof reaches its lowest point is a key part of the intervention into Freyberg as well the expanding design stretching out towards the sea that hints at the motion of bodies moving through the space. 'Tempering Motion' along this north-south axis establishes implied movement relationships of anchoring, expansion and repetition. The west side of the interior contains the male locker rooms and the gym facilities; the east side contains the female locker rooms and the aerobics studios. The two sides of the interior architecture uncover rhythms which reflect the female side and the male side, as well as programmatically locating the fitness activities. Looking across the pool, the east and west spaces reflect one another while achieving unique identities. Visitors witness something unique yet analogous happening in each space opposite from where they are standing. The female side is more expanding and ephemeral while the male side of the pool is more solid and axial. 'Tempering Motion' along this east-west axis establishes implied movement relationships of dark to light, revealing and concealing, stretching and containing.