Alexia Molinaro
Hi, I'm Alexia Molinaro! I enjoy creating spaces that are inspiring and creative. My thesis focuses on helping artists find jobs after graduation. I'm exploring how better art education can lead to more opportunities in fields like drawing, painting, film/photography, and graphic design. I've always been passionate about art and noticed that many artists struggle to find work. That's why I'm creating a place where artists can learn the skills they need to succeed in their careers. My goal is to make the art world more accessible and supportive for everyone.
Project Overview
The Creative Studio/Education Facility is a valuable resource for artists who paint, draw, take photos, create films or design graphics. In the art world, where success can be tough to achieve, this place provides crucial support. Students not only further their skills but also receive additional support to navigate their career paths within the creative field. Collaboration is very important in this design as it prepares students for future encounters where art disciplines inevitably intersect. Additionally, it provides a valuable networking opportunity and recognizes the importance of connections in today's professional landscape.
Click to enlarge
Synergy Parti Diagram.
Click to enlarge
Expirementing Parti On Floor Plan
Click to enlarge
Parti On Floorplan.
Concept/Design Process
The concept, inspired by the word synergy; A combination of elements to create something greater rather than on their own, envisions a central space for students to collaborate and learn from each other. Each art discipline has its own dedicated space around this central hub, but at the end of the day, students come together in the central area to enrich their learning journey even further rather than if they were on their own.
Site Plan/Floor Plan(s)
3120 Lakeshore Blvd is where the Creative Studio/Education is located due to several compelling factors. Firstly, its stunning views across the street provide an inspiring backdrop for students, offering a serene environment where they can take breaks and recharge during their free time. Additionally, its convenient transportation access ensures ease of commute for students from various parts of the city, enhancing accessibility to the space. Being situated in Toronto holds immense value as it is a vibrant hub for artists and creatives.
By locating our space here, students have the opportunity to interact with and learn from a diverse community of artists, further enriching their educational experience and fostering valuable connections for their future opportunities. The central space (highlighted in purple) is designed to foster interaction and connection among students in several ways. The round seating arrangement encourages face-to-face conversation and enables students to easily see and engage with each other. The visibility within the space fosters motivation, as students are inspired by witnessing their peers engaged in productive and creative work. Student artwork displayed on the walls further enhances a motivational atmosphere, providing constant reminders of the talent and dedication within the community. This environment encourages students to stay driven in their creativity in a shared environment of artistic expression.
Click to enlarge
Site Plan.
Click to enlarge
Ground Floor.
Click to enlarge
Mezzanine Floor
Click to enlarge
West Site Section
Click to enlarge
Student In-between Space
Click to enlarge
Pick-Up Cafe
Sections/Elevations
The site section shows the connection between the ground floor and the mezzanine floor. The importance of the OTB/OTA between the floors is significant as it offers a unique perspective that enables individuals on different levels to observe and engage with one another.
Students can witness their peers actively collaborating and participating from the mezzanine, fostering a sense of connection and community throughout the space. The Student in-between space and the Pick-up cafe are student experiences of the facility. These spaces act as other areas where these students intersect paths and create more connections and networking opportunities.
3D Views
Each render shows the three different art disciplines classroom and studio (drawing/painting, graphic design, film/photography). The studios and classrooms are designed to serve as inspiring environments for students.
With light colours and subtle hints of vibrant hues strategically incorporated throughout, these spaces are intended to evoke a sense of motivation and creativity. Natural lighting is used throughout these spaces to create an optimal setting for artistic expression. Each studio/classroom in the facility caters to a specific art discipline, with careful attention given to its design and layout to best support the unique needs of that field.
Click to enlarge
Graphic Design Studio
Click to enlarge
Drawing/Painting Studio
Click to enlarge
Film/Photography Classroom
