Diller Scofidio + Renfro

Discussion Response

One of the most interesting ideas discussed was that of “nothingness”. Usually architects are used to designing around specific programatic needs; however, the Highline is different in the sense that is a space that does not require function, and is kind of reluctant to it. Diller really embraced this idea and stated that in our age we are constantly doing something and we are not use to doing anything. In the Highline there isn’t much you can do aside from strolling and sitting. Even more dramatic is the offset level that hangs above 10th Avenue. There isn’t much to see, only the tail-lights of cars passing by. Diller related the feeling to that of watching a lava lamp, a non-changing movement that gives simple visual pleasure. It juxtaposes this idea to the built environment and the urban condition that the space frames.

Moreover, an additional discussion of Diller Scofidio + Renfro’s tendency to design “risky” and dangerous spaces emerged. In their Institute of Contemporary Art in Boston there is a room that is heavily inclined in order to frame purely the water and obliterate all context. The city was reluctant due to its off-putting condition. The space is very unique and can give vertigo to anyone who experiences it as one might feel as if the room was falling towards the water. The firm enjoys deviating from conventional methods, and in a way this mode of design challenges spatial notions that the public is already accustomed. Spaces that play with our feelings and makes us question our surroundings, rather than merely take them for granted.