Geena Wimsett's profile

Studio Pacific Architecture (Editorial Design)

This was a editorial design project for a third year paper. The brief was to create a book showcasing Studio Pacific Architecture's work and for the book itself to reflect them through both their ideals and their work. 

The images and text that is inside the book was provided to us, however all the detailing and layout is my own work. 

All the design decisions made had the focus of reflecting who Studio Pacific Architecture  are, through research, discussion and experimentation.There were two key elements to Studio Pacific that I wanted my work to embody, the contrast between energy and the organic with structure and calculated integrity. 
The cover was inspired by one of Studio Pacific Architecture's more famous works-The Rock at the Wellington International Airport. Contrast was an important part in designing this cover as The Rock itself is sturdy on the outside and elegantly detailed on the inside. So although the shapes on the cover are influenced by the shapes of the interior it being made of sturdy solid woodlike material gives this feeling of sturdiness, as well as referencing to Studio Pacific's use of natural materials in their work. The contrast of the elegant, more delicate details is then reflected in the exposed binding of the book. 
I chose orange as my primary accent colour as it is a colour that comes from organic shades (with Studio Pacific implementing natural materials into almost all their work) but has a burst of vibrancy to it, which I believe reflects the energy and creativity that Studio Pacific brings to their designs. Their designs are crafted with a sense of order to them but they are never stiff or stagnant, there is always aspects of interest and engaging creativity in their work.
The idea of precise intent needed in architecture along with the spark of creativity and excitement that Studio Pacific's work is also intended to reflect in the layout of the interior of the book. It sticks to a consistent grid and flow line, however the content is presented asymmetrically in order to make the pages engaging and interesting. I also believe it is incredibly important that the text does not detract from the images, that the pictures should have space to speak and not be bogged down by the text but instead supported by it.
For this project (and as an approach I like to bring into other projects) I use an amalgamation of different methods to tackle briefs. I use a combination of written, visual and physical brainstorming and then self-reflecting on my process either individually or through conversation with others. I also think a decent amount of research to gain understanding of the people and subject matter you are designing for is incredibly important. 
Below is a small example of some of my brainstorming, especially into what best reflects and how I interpreted Studio Pacific Architecture.
Photography credits (of images inside the book):

The Rock: Patrick Reynolds

Meridian Building: Simon Devitt

Prefab: Patrick Reynolds & Russell Kleyn

Taipakupaku House: Patrick Reynolds & Studio Pacific Architecture

Rawhiti Bach: Simon Devitt & Studio Pacific Architecture 


Studio Pacific Architecture (Editorial Design)
Published:

Studio Pacific Architecture (Editorial Design)

Published: