Ma: Space Where Flows Meet

Abstract

Time is a critical factor in the construction of space. Renowned Japanese architect, Arata Isozaki, writes about “Ma, space-time,” the “natural distance between two or more things existing in a continuity … giving rise to both spatial and temporal formulations” (Isozaki, Ma, Space-Time in Japan). Ma is an architectural space with flows, created not only by what we see today but also by what used to be and will be. Ma is part of an entire procession. It is a living space. Unfortunately, many works of architecture are built without consideration ofsite in a spatial and temporal context. Therefore, spaces are eventually neglected as time goes by, a great loss for those that contain people’s memories, experiences and dreams. Places like these exist here along the historic street Yesler Way in Seattle. For my thesis, I took on the challenge of studying the lag between space and time for Seattle’s “cursed” lots, with a focus on Boren’s Block One, and unravel and release their clogged flows. The gaps between streets and building lots will be intentionally obscured to let flows create spaces. The objective is to design a space where visitors can experience the continuity of time, from the past, the present to the future. Yesler Way will be reborn with a collection of spaces where various flows meet, including a plaza, amphitheater, gallery/ event spaces and concert hall.