Crossing the Threshold: A Study of Liminal Space Within New Zealand Landscape

Abstract

This thesis is an attempt to analyse the concept of thresholds, in natural capacities and contexts, with an intention toward reactivating liminal space through the creation of an architectural intervention; re-engaging society with the landscape. The point of origin for this investigation explores the concept of the door as a portal, a passageway and a state of transition from one reality to another. It also aims to trigger a shift in consciousness away from consumerism, technology, mindless routine and everyday bustle and instead towards spaces of self-awareness, solitude and reflection, restoring value to the ‘in-between’ and the journey. Using Cathedral doors and portals as a specific research origin and reference point for their eminent status as societal thresholds themselves, we analyse the transition: the crossing from one place to another, and are forced to ask: what effect does this transition have on our awareness of space and those around us, of architecture itself? Many New Zealand equivalents can be found within the abundance of natural threshold spaces and boundaries in our rugged and sometimes unforgiving landscape, many of which fall into neglect as ‘overlooked spaces and blind spots,’ and typically fall by the wayside, or are simply classed as aesthetically pristine but without function. Specifically, the point of convergence of the Queen Charlotte Sound and the Tory Channel in the Marlborough Sounds and gateway to the South Island, will be the anchor point for the project with a dual design/structure sitting across the water, creating a threshold of its own as one passes between the void. The concept of thresholds is an increasingly relevant one: we live every day in transition – crossing thresholds and boundaries in both physical and social capacities and this transition, this ‘crossing,’ is one of architecture’s most compelling moments and should be treated as such.