The “Art and Media Center Rhine Harbor” by Frank O. Gehry (California) is divided into three contrasting parts of buildings, designed and looks like a giant sculpture. Asymmetry dominates the building, the windows seems to jump out from the facade, the floor plans are uneven. By selecting different materials, each building has its own complex identity. As a connection between the three houses the material of the facade structure of the building in the middle reflects the two buildings in the north and south.
The first sight is catched by confusing – because unusual – forms. Curves, strange angles, distorted facades, protruding window frames, look like they where randomly placed into the undulating skin of the building. The visitor is confused and curious about the turns, curves and asymmetry, which looks as if they were formed by a creative child’s hand from clay. Somehow slanted.
The second view captures the strange buildings one by one, side by side: similar, but absolutely not the same. Different heights and levels, varying alignments and projections produce three solitaires which creates the overall picture. The uniqueness of each tower is determined by the choice of the materials which highlights the facades. The first tower is smooth plastered – in sheer white, but rather unspectacular next to “Building B”, which is covered in shiny silver stainless steel sheets. The very curvey surface reflects the sunlight over and over again. And finally, the third tower with the brick facade got a very modern look from its bizarre architecture.
