Soft Interventions
Studio ACTE has collaborated with the CRa, as well as representatives and stakeholders from Het Nieuwe Instituut to carry out research-by-design into the spaces, programmes and functions of Het Nieuwe Instituut.
Becoming a flexible institute
Understanding the foundations of the original institute allows us to position the building within its context and function. Critically examining the building and its spatial qualities, through its many ‘hard’, material transformations provides insight into how it functions from both a technical and programming perspective.
By looking at the potentials of the existing building, this research-by-design reveals a flexible institute where space is available for experimenting – a place to question the permeability of function, and to design new forms of making through ‘soft’ and temporary interventions into the spaces and programme of the institute.
In doing so, this project re-considers the function of the institute, given its role as a major platform for experimentation in the fields of architecture, design and digital culture. The sharing of knowledge between actors in the design field, and experimenting at a 1:1 scale to test materials and rethink resources will be essential to building resilient forms of practice. This research invites HNI to position itself not only towards attracting broader outside audiences, but also to shape itself into a vital resource for education and experimentation within the design industry.
Studio ACTE - Estelle Barriol
After working for Atelier Kempe Thill and ZUS, Estelle Barriol established Studio ACTE in Rotterdam in 2020. The studio focuses on exploring resilient architectures inspired by vernacular systems, emphasizing low-tech and geo-sourced designs based on reuse. Graduated in architecture from ENSA Saint Etienne (FR), Estelle regularly teaches design studios and workshops on bio and geo-based materials. In 2023, Estelle was awarded with a mention for the French Architecture prize of the Académie des Beaux-Arts.
Studio ACTE focuses on a transdisciplinary approach through exploratory processes to propose positive ways of building and living in response to the ecological emergency. The work includes small and large-scale architectures, material research, self-building, and tends to look for possible applied solutions to answer the depletion of resources and the fragility of ecosystems. Through a Design and Build method driven by experimentation, Studio ACTE rethinks the act of building by involving a hands-on approach and exploring the process of reuse at a 1:1 scale. The practice has grown expertise on upscaling reused, bio-based and geo-based material throughout projects and applied research.
