Laboratory for structural ornamentation. Research residency @ Villa Empain (Boghossian Foundation)

Abstract

Two month research residency, during which we explored the atmospheres of the highly aesthetic, cultured, valuable (interior) spaces of Villa Empain in Brussels. Passing through eras, stories, fabrics, contrasts and compositional fragments. We formulated a formal answer to these forms, by approaching the site via ornamental details: following the idea that something that apparently only embroiders the structure - something seemingly eliminable - can itself become structure. We proposed realising such ‘structural ornamentation’ through the process of making itself. This attempt might even be understood as a shared language and a dynamic opening up of form. The Place du Jeu de Balles / Vossenplein in Brussels functioned as a ‘commonplace’ counterpoint for the ‘subjective archeology’ that we undertook in the Villa.