Hill of the Arts
Turin, Italy
In collaboration with Romy Raanhuis and Justin Tjon Kie Sim
High up on the mountain, and with a view over the city of Turin there is a villa, it is well used and has seen the passing of decades. Cloaked in a veil of lush green foliage the villa exudes an air of authenticity Its walls offer shelter from the worries of life and its location allows visitors to explore the culture and beauty of the city and its surroundings in solitude or in the company of others.
purity
A round shape is symbolic for infinity
A round shape reflects:
Safety
Intimacy
Infinity
These three aspects ensure the purity of the location, its visitors and users is key in the design.
''gate way to art"
The main entrance will be a ramp sloping down alongside the inner wall of the main structure. This central point provides access to the art gallery and workshop rooms. Empty space provides creativity with enough room to grow. Located centrally is an open space in open air. The tree that grows here is symbolic for respect for the environment and creativity in this sanctuary.
art gallery
The art gallery is a room featuring a high ceiling of approximately 6 meters in height and is enclosed by the gateway to art. Round semi-transparent windows dotting this high ceiling will allow daylight to enter the room providing a natural day/night rhythm.
This high and well-lot room is designed to provide a feeling of freedom. Guests can browse the art pieces on foot or view then from a seated position. The art gallery will even feature chairs in the center allowing the guests to enjoy the art lying down.
art cabins
The park grounds will feature four art cabins. These will function as sanctuaries for the artists allowing them to work in a secluded and quiet place. Keeping in line with the aesthetics of the gateway to art these cabins will also be round in shape.
The cabins will be slightly sunk into the ground with round glass walls rising up from ground level to the top of the cabins providing the artist within with a panoramic view of the surrounding grounds.
welness
Enclosed by the basement of the villa, the underground placement of the wellness facilities creates the ultimate privacy feeling. The vide ensures a more spacious feeling, together with a beam of natural daylight that shines through a slot on the long shaped pool. An interplay of light and water creates reflections that ensure a treat for the eye.