Is this black surface the final cladding on the Holland Center? I sure as heck hope not. The renderings definitely show a metalic finish, which i was assuming was the zink.
Even if it was black, I wouldn't mind it so much if it didn't conflict with the color of the exterior stone.
"The right to have access to every building in the city by private motorcar in an age when everyone possesses such a vehicle is actually the right to destroy the city."
Lewis Mumford, The Highway and the City, 1963
By "not entirely unlike", do you mean "entirely unlike"?
But, seriously, is that the final finish?
Maybe they're just waiting to "shine and buff" it until construction is done.
"The right to have access to every building in the city by private motorcar in an age when everyone possesses such a vehicle is actually the right to destroy the city."
Lewis Mumford, The Highway and the City, 1963
I have always liked Libeskind. Anyway, when this was under construction, I wasn't too excited, but over time I have come to really like this design. It isn't traditional, it isn't Omaha, it isn't even typical US. I really think it pushes the envelope of midwest architecture.
I assume it is indeed the final finish. However, I sent an email to the Omaha PAC inquiring what work remains if any on the exterior panels. If I hear something I'll let everyone know.
It's definitely on the cutting edge of Midwest architecture.
And it is, in fact, traditional. It's very much done in the tradition of Le Corbusier's International Style Moderne.
Now can anyone answer my question for sure about the black finish on the building?
"The right to have access to every building in the city by private motorcar in an age when everyone possesses such a vehicle is actually the right to destroy the city."
Lewis Mumford, The Highway and the City, 1963
Definitely let us know if you hear anything. Thanks, Jeff.
"The right to have access to every building in the city by private motorcar in an age when everyone possesses such a vehicle is actually the right to destroy the city."
Lewis Mumford, The Highway and the City, 1963
Thank you for your interest and question about the Holland Performing Arts Center siding.
You are correct; the current dark slate color of the pure zinc panels is darker than the color illustrated on the architectural renderings we have published. The panels are expected to lighten slightly over time; in fact, we have already detected some color change when comparing new panels recently installed next to sections that were installed a months ago on the east side of the building.
The panels have an interesting reflective property. When the sun strikes the wall at an angle, the zinc takes on a silvery/grey appearance actually reflecting the color of the nearest structure (on the west and north side, light brown because of the Qwest building and Omaha Park 8 across the street; on the south and east, light steel because of the open blue sky). This changes throughout the day creating an ever-changing appearance, an almost living look. Even on dreary, rainy days, the depth of gray alters depending on the angle of the viewer. The concept of a changing, living look ties to the idea of live performances: never the same, always changing, spontaneous reaction to the audience and environment.
There is no additional finishing planned for the zinc panels; they will gain their slightly lighter patina with weather and time.
It is interesting to note that the exterior panels near ground level in the courtyard and around the stage door entrance and loading docks are an alloy which looks like the pure zinc, but will be able to repel oils from human hands and street-level traffic. The pure zinc was installed by craftsmen wearing clean gloves to protect the material from handprints which would be visible for the centuries to come.
Mr. Huston, I hope all this answers your question.
Sincerely yours,
Edward B. Hurd
Director of Operations, Omaha Performing Arts Society
Hmmmmm....That's a very detailed answer, but it sounds quite cherry coated....like they sat down and said, "Look, we know the public is going to ask us why it's not the same color as the rendering...what should we tell them?....Well, let's make it sound meaningful."
Until I get back and see this "ever changing" surface, I can't really believe all the stuff this guy said.
I don't see how a dark grey material will gain a "lighter patina" over time.
I wish it looked more like the renderings FROM THE START. I LOVE the renderings!
I can't wait to come back and see it in person!!!
"The right to have access to every building in the city by private motorcar in an age when everyone possesses such a vehicle is actually the right to destroy the city."
Lewis Mumford, The Highway and the City, 1963
Okay, now I thought you were a champion of artistic expression in architecture (or in general for that matter). This sounded as if it came straight from the mouth of one of the Polshek architects to me.
