The Salk Institute

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Salk Institute Essay The following is an essay supporting my opinion of the Salk Institute designed by Louis Kahn. I will share my observations and opinions of the space based on my current knowledge of design. I will share my opinion on the use of the principles of design, the virtually maintenance free building materials, the adaptation to change with the use of serving spaces, and the space planning that encourages social interaction with all tenants. My first observation upon arriving to the Salk Institute was the brilliant use of the design principle balance. Louis Kahn deliveries balance in his design with the use of symmetry. This visual equilibrium is achieved beautifully with the two structures mirroring each other separated by an open plaza featuring a monumental aqua duct inspired water feature. It was clear to me that Louis Kahn put a lot of thought into the building material selection. I sensed his keen awareness of clean-ability and durability. Clearly the Salk Institute is a research laboratory that warrants these considerations when selecting building materials. The materials that make up the Salk Institute consist of concrete, teak, lead, glass, and steel. In my opinion these materials address the laboratories demands by being easy to maintain, as well as being durable allowing the Salk Institute to be built to last. I really enjoyed Kahn’s attention to detail when it came to the concrete work. Once the concrete was set, Kahn allowed no further finishing touches in order to attain the pinkish glow of "pozzuolanic" concrete. I also really enjoyed the unusually smooth finish of the concrete and the use of lead to fill in the holes where the concrete form hardware had left holes. Kahn capitalized on the natural beauty of the concrete inspired by his travels to Rome and the concrete work of the Romans. Louis Kahn’s Salk Institute design

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