Invited to participate in the Time, Space, Existence Exhibition as part of the 2023 Venice Architectural Biennale by the European Cultural Center. ALTUS chose to present their work as expressed by “Organic Minimalism” and how that is manifest through Time, Space, and Existence.
Five projects were presented in individual panels of only photographs to allow the observer to achieve “experiential awareness” of each site, space, and material details.

ORGANIC MINIMALISM

The integration of constructed space within its natural setting - Place-making

The architects have cultivated an "issue-based" design process since 1995 that explores the unique qualities of each project site with the values of their clients to create location specific, distilled architecture for living. The work is presented to convey the visceral experiential qualities of each project. No drawings or models are included intentionally to allow the viewer to imagine being within each place. The issues that guide the work are explained within the theme of the exhibit - Time Space Existence to convey universality and specificity simultaneously.

TIME

The path of the sun shapes the architects' work to enrich daily rituals nurtured by natural light. This is the seminal issue that shapes the series of indoor and outdoor spaces, establishing a connection with the "spiritual food" of daylight that transforms our daily and seasonal experiences. The design of a residence integrated to its place is that of being present.
Architecture must engender an "experiential awareness" that heightens one's sense of being at the moment as well as of all time - timelessness.

SPACE

The exploration of human scale within the natural fabric of the site. How to engage and integrate indoor and outdoor spaces, shape natural light and materials for the gratification of the soul - Place making.
This is the pursuit of an architecture of distilled natural means.
What we select to build with is an expression of mans'
values, love, honor and respect of the beauty and gifts of the site. We are entrusted as stewards and protectors of our place, caretakers of a unified, cultivated experience for the brief moment of a lifetime.
Place making - not Object making.

EXISTENCE

Dwelling - the creation of the contemplative life through the thoughtful selection of materials and craft, transformed in natural light. This requires restraint and understanding of a gentle composition within the context.
How do we celebrate an architecture of its place, that makes no sense in any other place? How we build is the most true reflection of the individual and of culture. How can we create an enhanced distillation of design that renders a minimal impact on the natural surroundings for places of living? We must be more aware of the protection of our natural surroundings. Place making for living (and remote working) must celebrate the site and honor the history of the location with nobility and restraint for a successful existence. Bold yet gentle - to draw attention to the immeasurable qualities of nature.

Exhibition:  May 20 - November 26, 2023

Location:  Palazzo Mora, Venice, Italy

Design Team: ALTUS Architecture + Design

Sponsor: European Cultural Center, Italy