Aperture: A Dynamic Architectural Design Shaping Spaces with Light

Unleashing the Power of Light and Camera Variables

The delicate interaction of camera and light variables has long fascinated photographers and artists alike. Inspired by this phenomenon, renowned designer Gaby el Ashkar has created "Aperture," a large-scale architectural adaptation that manipulates the natural flow of light to dynamically reshape spaces. With its unique blend of dynamic architecture and industrial-anime aesthetics, Aperture is set to revolutionize the way we experience interior design.

Aperture stands out from other designs with its ability to morph through adaptable natural lighting formats. Connected smart shutter units allow for infinite and precise setups, controlled by the user. Just as micro-alterations of light source and camera can dramatically transform still scenes, Aperture imports these effects in real-time, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

The grid-based design of Aperture, along with its duality of volumes and voids, creates a raw industrial-anime universe. The use of raw materials, such as exposed rebars, unpolished black steel, and untreated wooden surfaces, adds to the industrial vibe. Tailor-made original artworks and elements further enhance the immersive experience, wrapping the spaces in a unique atmosphere.

Aperture's realization technology is based on a geometric and modular concept, characterized by strict lines and rigid volumes. The rough nature of the materials, including concrete slabs, grid blocks, and furniture, exposes the design's raw essence. The juxtaposition of these elements against an illuminated stretched white ceiling, smart connected system, and graphic large murals creates a harmonious blend of industrial and contemporary anime aesthetics.

The interior space of Aperture extends over three levels, with the basement floor expanding over 367 m2, the ground floor over 250 m2, and the first floor over 164 m2. This spacious design allows for various functions, whether residential, commercial, or exhibition space.

The interaction with Aperture is made possible through the connected smart shutter units. Powered by motors with angle sensors, these units rotate in a 90° array to control the light flow. Users can select the desired flow percentage via a control panel, and the motors will rotate independently to meet the defined setting. This system grants infinite and precise control over the flow and properties of light.

The development of Aperture started in February 2016 and was completed in October 2016 in Beirut, Lebanon. The design is the result of years of research and professional experience in architecture, interior design, photography, and illustration. The integration of smart hub systems required thorough research in current and upcoming advancements in smart, connected objects technology and user interfaces.

Aperture's unique blend of dynamic architecture, industrial-anime aesthetics, and innovative use of light makes it a standout design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2017 for its outstanding creativity and resourcefulness. This prestigious award recognizes designs that incorporate best practices in art, science, design, and technology, contributing to quality of life improvements.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Gaby el Ashkar
Image Credits: Gaby el Ashkar
Project Team Members: Gaby el Ashkar
Project Name: Aperture
Project Client: Gaby el Ashkar


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