‘PASSAGE’

The core idea behind the architectural synthesis lies in the desire to safeguard memory. Space is designed as an inviolate sanctum, as a space of memory. Memory is the prime mental process. Its function could be likened to a receptacle perpetually filled with bits and pieces, with fragments of the world. Memory is a thread bestowing meaning and connecting individual fragments: places, moments in time, circumstances.

Collective memory is social group memory; its loss equals the loss of identity—loss becomes oblivion.

The Synthesis’ Principal Features:

The essential laying out provides for a straight trail conversing with the ground surface. The passage created acts like a thread connecting individual places and individual conditions.

The linear trail is sunken below ground: the itinerary starts at ground level, descends below the earth, and surfaces again at the finishing point.

Structure governs the synthesis; spaces are encountered alternately along the trail’s straight line.

Spaces are opened along the passage—resting points for introspection and contemplation, spaces of catharsis.

The interplay of light and shadow is of paramount importance. It constitutes the essence of space as light and shadow alternate in succession marking movement and pause.

The underground trail, the movement from light to shadow from open to closed act as agents of transition from oblivion to remembrance and memory.

ARCHITECT: Giannis Giannoutsos

PHOTOGRAPHS: Silia Randou

DATE: 2019

TYPE OF BUILDING: Museum

“Sacred Architecture”, Proposal for the architecture exhibition "Public Architecture - Future for Europe", Moscow, 2019.