The installation conceived by noa* network of architecture is a trans-sensorial light and sound landscape gateway created by 34 light beams
Architecture and people are closely intertwined and through the creation of a space, the connection between the individuals within a space is encouraged. This was the starting point for the installation design. The concept proposed a kind of light and sound landscape, which welcomes visitors as they enter the exhibition.
On either side of the doorway, a crown of structural light beams opens up, each one at different heights, visually amplifying the sequence of the 17th-century portico that serves as the setting for the installation. The result is a sculptural work that combines various elements, including light, sound and movement, in direct dialogue with people and with the space. The light beams create relationships, building ‘bridges’ between people. The light reacts to the presence of visitors and at the same time interprets the way they relate to each other. Through a ‘transsensorial’ mechanism, a light and musical score is created that is not only closely related to mass and volume, and thus to the number of visitors, but also becomes the driving force behind the installation.
The result is an original and unique choreography of light and sound, which further enriches the visitors’ emotional journey. The 34 beams forming the crown of lights on either side of the entrance are made of stainless steel and coated with mirror, amplifying the presence of the people encompassing the space around them. Each element varies in height from 2.50m to 4.00m and has a triangular cross-section of 7x7sq cm.
The technical skill and know-how of the South Tyrolean company EWO has made it possible to translate the concept of interactivity into a functioning system of light and technology. The steal light beams are illuminated by LED units which are installed vertically and equipped with an innovative anti-glare technology called ewoLightTile. The sound, by Ebner Film + Music, was designed especially for this installation and programmed to react to the diversity of situations detected by the sensors. It is regulated by loudspeakers placed in the exhibition area of the installation, while the sensors that control light and sound according to the interactions between people are distributed along the 34 beams.
Photography: Alex Filz
Factfile-
Project: Transsensorial Gateway, Università degli Studi di Milano (Italy)
Architects: noa* network of architecture
Client: FuoriSalone Milano, Interni Creative Connections
Consultants: ewo (Execution Light & Technical Planning); Sound Design Ebner Film + Music, Lois Lane; Nieder (Production & Assembly of Beams); MirrorInox (Beam material suppliers)
Surface area: 50sq m
Year of Completion: 2021
Text: Laura Ragazzola
Translations: Landoor