VITREUM GLASSWORK AND EXHIBITION CENTER

Abstract

What makes a place, and what contributes to its identity? Gothenburg has a long history as a port city, with industries along Göta älv. However, in recent years these places are no longer used in the same way, which has contributed to empty premises and run-down areas. But if we were to remove these buildings, the city would have a different character and identity. By observing the existing character that gives Ringön its identity, a new building can emerge with inspiration from the history of the site. In this way, the area’s unique character can be preserved, and at the same time, developed and enriched with new architecture. Ringön is a centrally located place, but still on the edge of the inner city of Gothenburg. During the latter part of the 19th century, the land was bought up by the city of Gothenburg, where they began to build the harbor facility Ringön. In 1939, the Göta älv bridge was built, a new town plan was established, and the area was transformed into an industrial area. Today, everything from music to concrete is produced on Ringön, and there is a sense of settler spirit that permeates the area. After a site analysis and a review of the development project Saltet, the idea of a glasswork with an associated exhibition center arose. Letting the old meet the new is the keyword, where traditional craftsmanship and artistry are combined with new design ideas. Through analyzing theoretical and built references, the thesis aims to investigate Ringön’s identity and develop a modern glasswork with an associated exhibition center, with inspiration from the area’s industrial character. Additionally, explore how the movement and flow of a glasswork can be designed, as well as to investigate the architectural experience of an exhibition hall. The design proposal aims to answer, How can a modern glasswork and exhibition center be constructed with inspiration from the industrial character at Ringön?, with the sub question, In what way can different room compositions vary the architectural experience of an exhibition space?