conceptual exploration

Problem: How do we connect the historic nature of the building and the modern aspect of the furniture being sold?

As is, there is a disconnection. The solution is to design a space that fuses the two extremes together. We are dealing with the historic preservation of the downtown Durham district and the innovative, modern distinctions of CBI and the products that they stand by.


Concept:
We connect the extremes through a forward movement toward a destination of a more advanced state.

Breakdown:
Forward movement = funnel
More advanced state = future

Funneling:
Forward movement transitions from the past to the present with the intent of the present obtaining the future.

Spatially the past represents the exterior and the historic preservation of downtown Durham. Upon entering the “reception area” the field of vision is narrowed by the building and its physical features. Beyond the “reception area” are the products, and the way they are displayed speaks of a flexible and non-permanent showroom. A flexible showroom leaves it open to future products and their necessary arrangements. Varying ceiling levels will aid in the funneling process, focusing the attention of customers on products with the intention of future business deals.

Narrative:
I was walking down East Chapel Hill Street in search of the new CBI satellite showroom. I came upon a brick building with their sign hanging in the window and I was surprised to see a modern, forward moving company housed in this historical downtown building. I walked in and immediately felt welcomed by light and the openness of the reception area. I began noticing the blending of two typically different styles through the materials in the space. The one thing that caught my attention significantly was the furniture and how this was suddenly the only thing that I wanted to focus on.