Davis Wu Fragments

Finalist
Credits
  • Tauira / Student
    Davis Wu
  • Kaiako / Lecturers
    Carl Douglas, Yana Dombrowsky-M'Baye
Description:

Fragments is a jewellery studio located at 31A Cross Street in Auckland.

The studio's design reflects the transformative process of jewellery-making, involving decomposition and recomposition. The building has been decomposed and recomposed: originally a three-level building, Fragments now has five split levels. It is inspired by Japanese Metabolism and Brutalism, with each floor functioning as a distinct module while contributing to the overall unity.

A central glass elevator and an open staircase connect these fragmented levels, allowing natural light to permeate the space. This design maximizes brightness and addresses the challenge of a blind facade, creating a sanctuary-like atmosphere inside the studio. Additionally, gaps between the elevator and stairs ensure continuous airflow, promoting better ventilation and a comfortable workspace for jewellers. Key features include two display areas with a flexible railing system for versatile jewellery showcasing. The entrance display uses a moving glass platform for delicate pieces, while the first-floor display features a moving concrete platform for larger items. The studio's minimalist, concrete-based interior emphasizes structural elements and highlights the jewellery itself.

Fragments celebrates the individuality of jewellers and their craftsmanship, offering a well-lit, well-ventilated workspace that fosters creativity and innovation, while embodying the principles of transformation, light, and space.