The construction of micro-light gallery began as a proof-of-concept study for a new sanctuary in Lakewood Ranch, Florida. The concept is for an assembly with the drama and color of a traditional stained-glass window, but dynamic in nature as opposed to static. We proposed a system which would react and modulate with the hours and seasons, shifting and changing through the day and year. The sanctuary space would be in constant dialogue with Light, always renewing itself with the unique beauty and character of the moment.

Through 3D modeling and rendering we could provide our client with a strong sense of how the sanctuary space might appear, but we didn’t trust the algorithm to interpret the driving concept behind the space. This required physical testing, a true analogue connection to the source – be it the sun or supplemental lighting.

We began with a series of small foamcore, chipboard, and basswood models to explore and develop the concept. These efforts culminated in a full-scale model which illustrated not only the quality and diversity of effects produced by the assembly, but also innovative and efficient solutions to its construction. Given the size and complexity of the ultimate installation, constructability within budget was just as critical to prove as the concept’s aesthetic efficacy.

The object was developed to probe and test concepts related to the design of a building. But it also took on a unique character of its own, manifesting as an intimate human scaled experience – an occupiable and portable micro-gallery quietly illustrating an everchanging pallet of shapes and colors, a place one or two people can gather to experience fleeting moments of color and shifting light.