Ashleigh Clarke Architects recently entered an architectural competition for a fashion pavilion in Milan.
The brief:
Connect people with fashion design and promote the idea among masses.
The pavilion should strive to become a ‘window’ for man to experience the impact and importance of fashion design on the society. Dressmaking and fashion design through its evolution over centuries, has given us countless styles and possibilities of clothing. It has had a powerful impact on the socio-cultural fabric of the world. Fashion is an important tool of expression, influence and stimulation. The pavilion should be a tribute to the idea of fashion where the visitors would transcend their olfactory, tactile and visual experiences. The pavilion space should have an ephemeral and immersive architectural quality that would let people reflect on the tangible and intangible components of dressmaking. The participants are free to designate any kind of function (or not) to their pavilion that would fit in their narrative. The space could be a small museum/exhibition space, an experience/display centre, a designer’s workshop, a pop-up ramp or even a functionless vestibule.
Concept:
The “O” Pavilion is included in the strong existing visual axis created by the Sforzesco Castle and the Arco Della Pace, fortifying it. On its main axis, the pavilion offers a beautiful perspective end on both sides. Following the same architectural principle as Teatro Continuo, the fashion pavilion exists as a transparent white object, opened in all sides to the surroundings. The underside of the cover is softened by white, waved textile “ribbons” that gently suggest the “dress” concept to the spectator. The cover is suspended on columns transforming the pavilion in a floating, delicate white object.