In September we participated in the event Architect@Work in Rotterdam, engaging in multiple conversations with architects, engineers, interior designers and fellow exhibitors. If there is one theme that was discussed at length: shadow. The Art of Creating Shade should be a compulsory subject in any design education.

Architectural shadow? Is there such a thing? We believe there is. Over the years, we have created many façades with interesting semi-transparent patterns and figures, enjoying and describing the architectural expression of the exterior. During that same period, we – almost daily – enjoy the patterns that shadow creates on the floors and walls of our headquarters in Kampen. Geometrical patterns, in this case, created by the MD Formatura FO223 façade on the outside.

Main design criterium

Shadow gives spaces an extra layer of experience and meaning. It creates ever changing angles of light and darkness and influences the way you look, move and feel comfort (or not) in that space. Behind facades with MD Designperforation or MD Formatura, the patterns add an extra layer of cognitive emotions. In most projects, that feels like a bonus. But what if we elevate the topic to a main design criterium? Start with the form and pattern of shadow and design a façade from that angle?

Middle Eastern Tapestry

The design in the façade of Theatre Zuidplein in Rotterdam was created using parametric design tools and choosing only one tiny triangle as the form with which to make an appealing composition. The effect in the façade is magical, especially during the night when the building lights up like a lantern. But the bonus is the effect the shadow has in the interior. With the right angle of the sun, visitors of the theatre experience shadow like a Middle Eastern Tapestry. Like walking in a fairytale out of One Thousand and One Nights.

Light as a tool

Whether the architect or designer uses artificial lightning or depends on daylight as the ‘magic maker’: shadow patterns are an opportunity not to be missed. At Architect@Work Rotterdam we showcased a golden coated aluminium leaf from the recently completed Renaissance Hotel project: in Amsterdam it adorns the ceiling with a subtle strip of LED-lightning around the edges. An element of the rooftop extension of warehouse Santos in Rotterdam also attracted the attention of the visitors of the show. In our interview with the architects Karin and Karin they tell about the surprising shadow effects of that façade.

From art to science

For us, the conversations we had in Rotterdam and the projects we are currently working on give enough encouragement to dive deeper into the world of shadows. We really want to explore, experiment and experience more architectural shadow and measure its effect on the wellbeing of the users of buildings and public spaces. In other words, we will dive into The Science of Creating Shadow and hope that architects and clients will join us on that journey. To be continued.