Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Weekly Response 3: Milstein Hall





   Milstein Hall is a recent installment for Cornell's College of Architecture, Art, and Planning (AAP). Much of the intent of the building was to capture the newly found sense of pride for the school, and to act as a new home for AAP students. The building looks extremely modern, and is constructed mostly out of steel and glass. The large glass windows of the façade allow for people to see into the building, which creates a feeling of curiosity for those passing by. Since it overhangs on the second floor, it also allows students to see an open panoramic view of the surroundings while spending long hours at work. It is important to also point out that Milstein Hall wasn't built as a free-standing building. It was built to connect Cornell's Arts Quad and the Falls Creek Gorge. This helps to create a better sense of community for those attending the school and allows for more interaction amongst peer groups between the neighboring buildings. 
   Milstein Hall's curriculum is focused around architecture. Designers helped to create a unique atmosphere with all the open space, and interconnecting walkways throughout the building. Milstein Hall completely immerses its students in an intricate, awe-inspiring work of art. The upper level of the building (the glass box) is the studio space, while on the lower levels are various areas for critiques, lectures, and recreation. Having the studio on the top shows its importance in the curriculum, and also allows for the students to receive a breath of fresh air as they work their days away. The lower level is a large concrete dome, which makes one feel engulfed in its architecture. The walkways help carry the flow of people and produce further interaction between them. It helps to bring students and faculty together to generate new, thoughtful ways to approach architecture. 

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