The series of projects developed for AORA are part of an on-going investigation into the design of spaces that promote care and wellbeing. Conceived entirely to be experienced virtually, this research into digital architecture aims to look at ways of instilling a sense of calm, wellbeing and discovery through form, light and context.

AORA is a dedicated space designed to display art and at the same time as a place that can bring slowness into peoples lives. Developed with the intention of providing a place for people to experience art while stuck at home during the pandemic, the forms are intentionally made to promote discovery.

Inspired by the images of Domus Aurea in Rome and our experiences of visiting Naoshima in Japan, the forms are also a representation of carved spaces that inherently capture the feeling of a cavernous interior. Large openings help to connect you with images of the sky while stark shadows give the visitor a sense of warmth that comes from the contrasting sunlight on the walls.