On the Grid

Guided by the Chicago city grid, this library explores the implications of the grid and the complications of the figural. The library is centered around paintings, models, and literature that are all grid-based and also includes the equipment necessary to study the grids. Everything that the grid stands for- regulation, stubbornness, equality of space- is challenged by a combination of form and material. The layering of the figural circular forms upon the orthogonal grid but also upon each other creates spaces to enjoy the collection of grids- galleries, seating, reading areas, and offices. Materials including corrugated metal, glass, and tiling prove to question the gridded structure of w-section beams. The grid is truly appreciated when examined through the lens of how we can break it.