gastronomic spiral

Illinois Institute of Technology
Chicago, IL
Prof. Andrew Schachman
Spring 2017

The Gastronomic Spiral is a new loop in the urban fabric, a path along which the growth, preparation, and consumption of food occurs. The circulation of the building draws food from growth and delivery on the river level up while moving people down from the bridge through multiple means of transportation. Both meet in the heart of the building, the kitchen. The spiraling envelopes support the program: the exterior transparent glazing holds micro-garden units for growing food while the solid, load-bearing walls display and store goods and materials. As one moves through the space, it is a journey mirroring that of the food. The simple, yet elegant organization reconnects a forgotten space in the city and brings neighborhoods together with something we all share in common: a love of food.