ICA Boston

The ICA, also known as the Institute of Contemporary Art, is located in the inner harbor of Boston. At first glance you might think the building has been oriented incorrectly, but yet this has been done purposely. It's oriented so that all views overlook the harbor with the Boston skyline as their backdrop. It is quite an enjoyable space, inside and out. The overlying theme here is the wraping of the exterior deck into the building and back out as a massive cantilever. This exterior deck is the site being examined.

The deck is a great place to have a seat and enjoy the view of the harbor. The cantilever overhead encloses the space and frames the views out into the harbor. There is plenty of seating on the deck, mainly to accomodate for outside performances if need be, but they also serve as a great place to enjoy a meal right off the cafe located inside the building.

Here is a view out from the exterior deck overlooking the harbor and skyline. On a nice day one can sit out here for hours experienceing the serenity of the waves crashing up on shore and these breathtaking views. One of the more intersesting aspects of the building deals with the curving and folding of the exterior deck into and out of the building. From outside the site examined you can follow the deck line up the building and back out as it creates a cantilevering platform where the art galleries are located.