Iwan Baan

Rem Koolhaas’ latest project -The Prada Transformer- is not just a building, but also a statement on today´s state of architecture. Dubbed the anti-blob, this “object” rejects all common blobby shapes we have seen lately. Simple geometrical shapes (a circle, a cross, a rectangle and an hexagon) enclose a space that depending on its rotation results on different spaces suitable for fashion exhibitions, cinema, art exhibitions and other special events. Each face is the platform on which these activities take place, while also being served by the other faces enclosing the space.

A few weeks ago we showed you part of the construction progress, which is already finished and opened in April 15th with a fashion exhibition (Waist Down – Skirts by Miuccia Prada, see video of animated skirts at the exhibition), that will be opened until May 31 when the Transformer will rotate into Cinema mode.

Architecture photographer Iwan Baan recently visited the Prada Transformer and shared with us this impressive photo set of the Transformer on Exhibition mode (see more after the break).

For me, search for the ultimate flexible space and the use of regular shapes puts several things in question. Transformable architecture is nothing new, but in times on which “mixed use” seems to be the 2nd typical characteristic of a building after “green”, this project makes a stand. No fancy shapes, no wind diagrams, no fancy structure, no shiny surfaces, no eye candy renderings. No blob. Just, a simple building.

FASHION EXHIBITION

April 25th – May 31st: Waist Down – Skirts by Miuccia Prada. Exhibition showcasing a collection of skirts, ranging from the first-ever Prada show to recent ones.

CINEMA

June 26th – July 5th: Flesh, Mind and Soul. Film festival co-curated by Alejandro González Iñárritu (director Babel, 21 Grams).

ART EXHIBITION

July 30th – August 20th: Beyond Control. Exhibition by the Prada Foundation.

SPECIAL EVENT

September 8th – Fashion Event, the final flip of the Transformer.

Iwan Baan

Iwan Baan

Iwan Baan

Iwan Baan