D I A P H A N O U S   O B L I V I O N

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Type: Mixed Use 

Status: Proposal

Year: 2014

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The project is located in an area of Newark between University Heights and downtownʼs Military Park Commons District. This location presents the opportunity to challenge the boundaries between public and private, between city and university. It also presents the possibility of establishing a gateway or iconic identity to the Universities.

 

Diaphanous Oblivion is part of a larger project that addresses housing for scholars in two urban conditions: small scale (lot infill), and large scale (block infill). This specific project focuses on the urban condition of block infill and proposes as a mixed use project composed of housing, gathering spaces of various kind, and a commercial section.

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Raising the building 20ft above ground allows nature to flow from University Heights to Downtown Newark. A series of layers are introduced to divide areas and connect interior with exterior spaces; this allows the building to stand out in therms of transparency and design approach. Panels divide private with semiprivate and public spaces creating on each floor common gathering spaces, or at times, balconies and private gardens. A central courtyard divides the two buildings creating a public "Oasis" that allows interaction and socio-cultural exchange.

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Diaphanous Oblivion is a mixed use project that acts as a City within a City. With only 50% of total lot coverage and a 50ft setback, the project returns to the city parts of its spaces and transforms them into green gathering areas. About 25% is given to the city for commercial use in order to improve Newark's economy and give new value to the location.