Bethany Wilson
The sense of touch is the one sense that has a direct, physical
connection to the body. Specifically speaking, the thermal dynamics
of touch is even more complex in that it perceives movement of temperature
rather than hot or cold. Therefore, constant temperatures become background
noise, or slack space, but when there is a contrast in temperature a messaging
system with the body is formed. This dichotomy of the thermal sense
is a fitting concept to introduce to Grand Haven, Michigan. The contrast
in climate throughout the year presents an opportunity to create a setting
for an urban thermal baths pavilion to create variety of community gathering
and individual experience throughout the year.
The
thermal baths primarily consist of two types of zones that create instances
of contrast through positioning and orientation, scale, circulation and material
choices. These spaces are versatile throughout the year by providing flexible
spaces for program. The cool baths seasonally provide an area for an
ice rink while the warm baths maintain their purpose year round. The
scale of program created by these two contrasting zones in turn presents
opportunities for variety in the type of gathering that may occur. The
cool baths perform on a grander scale by creating large social gathering
spaces whereas the warm baths set the stage for small, intimate gatherings. These
types of spaces encourage community interaction and engage the bodily
senses throughout the year.