CONVERGENCE is a multi-use building inspired by the Greek concept of polykatoikia, located in the city of Franklinton, Ohio. This project converges the West and East sides of Franklinton to bring two lost communities together. The west side of Franklinton, also known as Old Franklinton, experiences difficult times and has lost its sense of community over time due to the newer developments on the east side of Franklinton. CONVERGENCE reunites the two halves into a place where people can learn, live, explore, and collaborate to reshape their city. The design explores a mirrored form that converges with the other, creating a striking building that resists gravity, as it stands freely in the air. Each form supports the other, symbolizing balance and reliance on one another, with connection points that are engineered for structural stability, yet giving the illusion of weightlessness. The structure features an elaborate truss system that connects the two volumes above and underground. This truss also informs the design of the window panels, creating an intricate facade for selective lighting.
