Deception Of Scale
“Deception of Scale” explores how architectural elements can alter perceptions of interior and exterior space. It acts as a dynamic modifier, concealing function and creating surprise, discovery, and freedom by manipulating density, height, and radius.
The concept originated from a space modifier: an experiential installation shaped by a forest of endless steel columns. The design was intended to provoke curiosity from the outside and reveal an expansive, open interior within. The columns’ heights and thicknesses were manipulated to create fluid transitions in density and visual weight, turning spatial perception into a sensory experience.
This architectural principle became the foundation for the building itself, a bold, future-facing intervention for Rochdale. The project is designed as a hub where innovation, education, and community converge. Circular, layered circulation patterns guide people through varied spatial experiences, echoing the original idea of shifting scale. The prefabricated CLT structure promotes sustainable construction, while the modular design allows for future expansion and adaptability. The landscape and green roofs contribute to biodiversity and public well-being. At every level, the building fosters interaction between professionals and visitors, expressing Rochdale’s identity as a place of progress, openness, and resilience while turning spatial ambiguity into a powerful social and sensory experience.
