OM
Studio
Villa Arconati
Milan 2021
Harmonizing Past and Present: Capturing the Essence of Time through Light at OM Design Studio
The Meridiana building has a profound connection to its past, thanks in part to its previous function as a time-measuring instrument utilizing natural sunlight. In our design, the relationship with the sun extends beyond visual aspects, encompassing a physical connection through the implementation of "light cannons." These volumes serve as conduits for light, infusing the interiors with a heightened sense of intensity and emotion. Additionally, they offer glimpses of the sky, providing alternative perspectives of the exterior and subtly accentuating the passage of time throughout the day. Our design approach is rooted in the concept of "daylight," which encompasses both direct and indirect sunlight throughout different times of the day. It can be seen as a volumetric element that permeates the building from various angles, not solely through windows, and varies with the seasons and hours.
The Meridiana building incorporates recurring elements:
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Double-height voids create connections between levels.
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Five light cannons enhance the interior and exterior.
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Roof composition emphasizes alignment and changes the building's exterior.
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Visible from outside, the cannons include three inclined ones and two vertical ones.
In the Meridiana building, the relationship between interiors and the external light conditions is highly significant. This is achieved through interventions on the roof, including light cannons and cuts in the north flap. The project places great emphasis on the sun and its movements, as depicted in the accompanying diagram.
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Light cannons: The connection between the sun, light cannons, and interiors is prominently evident during the central hours of the day, while it is slightly less pronounced before and after these hours. All light cannons feature transparent glass at their ends, allowing for continuous views of the sky.
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Roof cuts: In the case of roof cuts, the relationship with the sun persists throughout the day, with more intense lighting occurring during the central hours. However, seasonal variations play a significant role, with longer durations of sunlight in spring and summer and shorter durations in autumn and winter.
