Suspended banners humanize expansive space

Judy Dioszegi, Designer | Green Oaks, Ill., United States

Issues of architecture and space made this a complex project, which won an Outstanding Achievement Award in the interior banners category of the 2007 International Achievement Awards. Architects visually lowered the 12m-high ceiling, attempting to humanize the expansive space. Three large banners were suspended from the ceiling, which created a canopy that respected the linearity of the building. The banners’ curved elements helped create a sense of movement. Curves in the banners were designed with the idea of a “river of life” or “life journey,” and key colors complement the stained glass windows and help soften the space. The 4.6m section’s registration was checked by laying them on a gym floor, which was the only space large enough to see them in their entirety.