Project Brief: The advanced design studio course 'A Space of Opalescent Light' presented the challenge of creating in the nationally landmarked Newport Congregational Church, an exhibition on John La Farge who in 1879, ambitiously reimagined it interior. Using his innovative invention of opalescent glass, La Farge swaddled the sanctuary wall, ceiling, and windows in a blanket of geometrically patterned glass. While considered a masterpiece of interior design, La Farge's accomplishments are nonetheless overshadowed by his rival Louis Comfort Tiffany who used his techniques extensively.
Final Images [Left to Right]: Context, Plans, Renderings, Exhibition Guide
PROCESS IMAGERY & NARRATIVE JOURNEY
Initial Conceptual Studies: Exploring experiential qualities of the existing stained glass windows
Initial Conceptual Rendering: The Tiffany lamp, hung by donors after La Farge's passing, became a symbol of their conflict and rivalry within the Church.
Initial Conceptual Diagramming: exploring themes of reflection
Photograph of Final Conceptual Model, Handcrafted (Chipboard)
Top Floor Plan
Bottom Floor Plan
Cross-Section
Section
Rendering: View From Entrance
Rendering: View From Above
Rendering: View of Upper Level