Programmatic Requirements. The intervention served as a link between the spontaneous energy of the place and its founders and the practical need to organize three distinct functions: the exhibition area, the office, and the storage. The main challenge was to divide the space to create a more intimate atmosphere and gain additional display surfaces, without fragmenting the scale of the volume or losing the perception of the original skylights.

Tectonic Sincerity. The defining feature of the project, and of Matta’s very identity, is the partition wall. This element was conceived by layering its structural components, using plasterboard and an exposed frame following a logic of honesty and efficiency. Exposing these layers allowed the wall to define the space without closing it off, maintaining a sense of openness throughout the gallery.

Spatial Evolution. The wall's materiality tells a story of both current function and future evolution. For instance, the lateral openings in particular the one of the office allows the exhibition to flow inside, ensuring that when the door is open, the back wall remains continuous and the display never stops. In addiction of the wooden element is placed at a precise height to serve as a future balustrade for a mezzanine that will be built over the storage area.

Defining the Subject. While the wall establishes a strong character, it never overpowers the art; it provides a clear identity while ensuring that the focus remains entirely on the subjects and the works on display.

In collaboration with Giacomo Guttuso 

Design Team: Joddy Patrianagara