The article “Building the Empire of The Gaze: The Modern Movement and the Surveillance Society” explains the connection between modern architecture and the idea of surveillance in society. As technology advanced, new building techniques and styles emerges. Glass was one of the most famous key elements of the time. It supports transparency. Transparency became one of the pursuant of building because it helps to connect indoor and outdoor. However, the downside of this benefit is privacy invasion.

Listed as examples, the designs of the famous architects, Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe, both have modern key elements, such as glass, concrete, and steel. Both architects use many pilotis and giant glass panels for a clean look of the building. Most of their building look as if they are open for display instead of other uses. The utilization of glass was originally for sunlight penetration and access to outdoor views while offering part of the indoor preview. But with the excessive use of glass panels, exposing all the interior parts takes away users’ privacy. 

The article also mentions darkness has always been fearful to people. With the invention of light and glass, everything become spotlighted. No more darkness equals no more fear. The incorporation of new technology, lights, and a new element of glass, anywhere can be revealed at any moment. Without darkness, people won’t have to fear the unknown, but being too noticeable became their next worry. The amount of exposure, and the feeling of being observed, are uncomfortable. But that’s the so call modernism. 

The view access provided by the storefront glass panels are key elements of modernism.

Building observation

Day and Night is a product of modernism. But the amount of visual access offered by the store was understandable. Since it’s a store, and it only opens from 12 pm to 8 pm, there’s no objection to the amount of exposure through the glass panels because it’s a public space that doesn’t have privacy concerns. Thus, the store maximized the indoor-outdoor connection by installing huge glass panels along the two sides that are directly connected to the sidewalk. Pedestrians can have the opportunity to visually explore the space while making their trip elsewhere. They could be attracted by the opportunity they view in the space. 

Many of the finishes and furniture of the store are simple. It’s modern. The steel frame with glass panels for the storefront. The concrete columns and floor finish, its supportive, durable, and easy to clean. Most of the furniture is ‘fast furniture’ looking. Other surfaces such as the ceiling are simple in one color. A drop-down ceiling is being installed above the workstation where drinks are being prepped to absorb some noises. Light fixtures are simple, but also has a few variety. 

Reference

Jones, Peter. 1999. “Building the Empire of The Gaze: The Modern Movement and the Surveillance Society. Download Building the Empire of The Gaze: The Modern Movement and the Surveillance Society.” Architectural Theory Review 4 (2): 1–14.