The Terra Cotta Studio by Tropical Space

The bricks were built interleaved creating holes which help the wind ventilating and air conditioning. This layer is not the wall preventing the outside environment from inside the studio, so the artist can feel the wind, the cool from the river, and the sound of nature in the surrounding area. Meanwhile, it also creates certain privacy for the artist.

The interior of the studio is the three-floors wood frame system creating 60-centimeter-square modules integrate shelves for displaying artworks, a staircase leading upstairs, hallways, and seating benches. The height of the frame is 7 meters. Follow the hallways, people can observe the workshop, river banks and the whole garden through windows.

The center of the studio consists of two floors. In-ground floor, there is a turning table that the artist works. The artist and his works can interact with the sunlight, from the sunrise to twilight. Here, people can find the conversation of the artist and his works; and himself and his shadow in the silence.

At the same time, people can see and feel the time passing terra cotta artworks by the movement of the sunlight.

On the mezzanine, people can see much different space inside and outside the studio, as well as observe the artist working by the round void in the centre.

Flooding was also a consideration when designing the building. By encouraging the artist to put both finished and unfinished works on the upper shelves, they should remain safe if the river bursts its banks and flows into the building.

The design team desires the studio would be a place containing, contemplating, and spreading emotion of the artist with both finished and unfinished artworks. The project is a destination for people who love terra cotta to share and have the experience with the clay.