The renovation and expansion of Cai Guo-Qiang?s studio in New York, led by OMA Partner Shohei Shigematsu, organize the studio?s multiple functions around a central, light-filled courtyard. The studio, located in an 1885 schoolhouse in New York?s Lower East Side, previously consisted of one floor on the ground level. The expanded space now includes both the basement level and an adjacent storefront on First Street. Now twice the original square footage, the expanded headquarters enhances the artist?s capability for production, exhibition, and reception.
Photography: Brett Beyer
?A series of distinct vertical connections from the street level illuminate the cellar level below,? commented lead designer, Shohei Shigematsu. ?Natural light from the courtyard filters down through a series of light wells composed of walkable glass panels and a reflective bamboo vault. Inside, a central stairwell provides circulation to the lower level, as well as a double-height display space. An existing structural vault was repurposed as a periscope, offering views to the street via a mirrored desk in the library.?
Without gallery representation, the 8,675 square foot studio plays a crucial role in the artist?s operations, acting as the main work, archive, gallery, reception, administration, and office space. The porous boundaries between the programs unite the studio through continuous materials and light. The resin wall spans both levels along the courtyard edge, acting as a central spine dis...