32BNY: Linked Hybrid 7 Years Later (Steven Holl)

“When people can understand the possible meaning of it, that gives it a way of transcending all the other factors.” - architect Steven Holl In the beginning, architect Steven Holl conceptualized this building as a series of towers to create an “open city within a city”. Through watercolors and sketches he uncovered a connection between the design concept and the painting Dance (I) by Matisse. In the painting, lines convey a remarkable fluidity and sense of dynamic movement as the outstretched arms of the dancers come together in an unhampered expression of joy. When he shared this with the client, the idea immediately connected and the concept came to life. Spirit of Space joined Steven in Beijing seven years after the completion of the building to see how it had evolved. The film shares this experience as the design intent manifested into scenes of urban life - envisioning a future that prioritizes connections between people.