Interstices

‘Interstices’ combines a series of programmes within the ground floor, allowing general public, skaters, and artists to inhabit the space simultaneously. To achieve this synchronicity the various components must be able to be used for different purposes at different times and dates throughout their duration. The main concourse, which acts as a safe and accessible viewing platform and route through the objects, doubles as a stage during concert performances. This snaking walkway passes through around and over the main space objects, which act as both skating arena and public auditorium for the viewing of live music, DJ’s and artwork. This use of space is analogous with the way modern cities often function, and lead us to explore the left over spaces and areas between built form and public space; the interstices. It is these interstices that are often used by skateboarders, who subvert the programme. The edge of a stone step, the under croft of public buildings or a stainless steel handrail are reused to enable the activity of skateboarding to flourish. We were able to incorporate items and details of a city into the programme but manipulate scale, materials and form.

Like the living urban environment, we have used La Tri Postale spaces, cracks and crevices, design faults and features, and placed objects that represent on one hand a pre-determined, top down and designed environment, fit for purpose, but on the other hand allows flexibility and chance activities to take place within them. This seemingly casual composition reflects the beauty of skateboarding, something that is not governed purely by reason, but uses the space as a guide as to what is achievable; personal interpretation of how to utilise the space enables invention. The style and flow expressed within this area is purely personal, and no two movements will be identical, there is never perfection, purely a personal journey.