kansas city center for the arts
crossroads, kcmo | arch 209 | spring 2016
The Kansas City Crossroads District already has a strong sense of community. Much of that community base stems from a sense of accomplishment a majority feel in the creation and rehabilitation of the area to what it is now. But the efforts have only just begun. There is a strong pride in the area, something that needs to continue and manifest itself in the promotion of a diverse community that functions as a collective whole. In response to this, the addition of a Community Center to the area would further enhance resident’s efforts, bringing forth a place for community interaction, promotion of the arts, and a sense of purpose to a site that desperately needs some attention.
As a first approach, the use of light and circulation is of the most importance – to create galleries and support spaces which are welcoming and of exceptional quality. Using those principles as guides, a series of heavy concrete walls are used as spatial dividers and light protectors, shielding the sun from areas like galleries, while providing other likes (like the restaurant, lobby, and studio apartments) with a healthy amount. The result is the creation of spaces which can function in any number of ways, while remaining comfortable throughout the day.
Throughout the main floor galleries and exhibition space, a soft natural light creates a welcoming and warm atmosphere for displaying artist’s works. A central atrium space with green wall and Zen-like water garden bring natural elements and additional reflected light into the most interior spaces of the Community Center. Circulation is reduced to a loop – circling the central atrium – allowing visitors to easily flow from exhibit to exhibit with ease.
On the second floor, three live-in artist apartments face 18th Street on the south side of the building, providing abundant natural light and a large outdoor terrace. Live-in artists also have access to a shared studio space and additional gallery/exhibition space located on the second floor. A large outdoor terrace overlooking Cherry Street also occupies the second floor, perfect for events, showings, or visitor enjoyment of the unobstructed views of Downtown KC. On the north side of the Community Center, an outdoor sculpture garden accessible from the main gallery spaces gives visitors an additional way to experience art and nature in a busy urban environment.
