EXPLORATORIUM IN BYTOM, POLAND
The diploma concerns project of Exploratorium at the main square in city Bytom and was created out of the need to change the image of the city. It conctains a proposition of actions, which city could take to improve itself situation.
A wide research section was divided into several separate parts. In the first part was analyzed qualitative research of life in Bytom, which summarized the inhabitanst needs about the city. The next part was concerned on “exploratorium” definition, which was not formulated in Poland yet and on differences between exploratorium, science museum and science center. The definiction od exploratorium and widely described design guidelines are the results of the second part of analisys. As the designed building also raises an issue of the impact od architecture, so the next part of research is concernerd at the sphere of senses and human perception. The last part of research was concerned directly at the chosen location and its historical conditions. The project was prepared on the basis of collected materials of archeological excavations, which was carried out in the 90s, and was referred to the historical urban layout of the market square.
The designed building was set up in referencje to the historical urban layout, but without its literal imitation. Shaping the square and the building space was divided into material, virtual and lighting elements. The virtual elements are characteristic holograms, which represent the historical building of western frontage with the Town Hall and trees. Virtual elements can be turned on or off randomly or programmatically. Although the building is a permanent development facility, it is also a material and virtual element through its various façades. The elevation, just like virtual elements, can be switched between programs that change the translucency of its surface, turning it into a mirror, multimedia or interactive screen. Thanks to such measures, the building will affect the observer's senses and perception.
In addition to the exhibition function affecting the senses, the Exploratorium’s activities will also include the exposition of archaeological excavations, scientific and research, cultural and training activities, including courses for raising professional qualifications, etc. This will allow the building to be used by a wider audience, which becomes an important aspect of design in the most important place of the city. Residents will feel associated with the new building and will feel obliged to care for it. The activities of the Exploratory are primarily to improve the image of the city, so its wide offer can make these assumptions come true.
