Early conceptual images allowed me to gain a better understanding of my own space and how I wished it to speak to people.
In this early concept, I envisaged projections and screens throughout the space in a highly interactive manner.
Early Concept- Ideas of layering vintage, 1950s film inspired glamour with 21st century projection ideas- 3D etc.
The Restaurant/Bar area has been designed so that the tabels are close together. There is no table smaller that that which seats 4; people are invitied to sit together. This encourages chat about the exhibition, and most importantly about film. Wallpaper has been used for an authentic 1950s feel. However, modern mahogany and glass dining sets together with glass pendant lighting ensure that there is no abiguity around just how modern this space is. It is deliberately placed at the front of the building to attract tourists and new users into the building
This innovative 3.5m glass panel can be projected onto on one side. The restaurant diners, therefore, can see people arriving to the space, however they are shielded by a stong projection on the other side, so can comfortably enjoy their dining. On arrival then, visitors will be inspired and overwhelmed by the large projection. It will show film clips (from films that are addressed in the still exhibition area) on an hourly loop. The film sound will also be played at a low volume; acting as a sort of background music.
The 'Sound Tunnel' is a unique interactive creation.
Inside the tunnel. This is a unique and exciting feature providing an entirely innovative experience. Through the medium of sound it evokes in people the emotion that we feel when watching films. It is interactive in that cords pulled and buttons pressed trigger the sound: momentous quotes from Irish film which in a brief way tell some of the story of Irish political history. The lighting is dim and coloured. People will enter in 2s and 3s. It is designed to excite and inspire people so that on leaving the tunnel, they are ready to read the still exhibition on the front of tunnel to learn more.
Sound Tunnel Extreior. Plastic laminate will be covered byexhibition boards. Lit from recessed spot lights in ceiling, activated by touch censored pads on floor which are stood on.
The Film Thatre is an essential area within the space. It was one of the original ideas. There needed to be somewhere for film festivals to hold small screenings of the latest local film, and a place people could independantly hire to show their own short film clips, made at The FilmReel or elsewhere.
Unlike most cinemas in N.I this theatre is relaxing, cosy and comfortable. It seats around 20-25 people,meaning that there is an intimate atmosphere, not unlike a large sitting room. It is the ultimately social space.
The Archives Room
The Film Archives is a fun, alternative section within the space. With all the character of an old record shop, visitors can browse through either films lined up on display shelving, through catalogues, or on the online archives on the three Apple Macs. These types of browsing are reflective of the changes in time and technology, which the visitor should be aware of throughout the whole space. It is an amalgam of old and new; the film reel to the digital age.
The workshop space differs from the rest as it must be hired for use. It will contain some filming equipment; hand held video recorders, green screen technology etc. The space is ideal for groups of students, or families who wish to get more involved with film. Seating can be brought out from storage from the occasional talk that may be given here during film festivals.
Perspective View of Workshop- additional seating
Every aspect of the journey through the space must be an experience. These flat screen TVs are wall mounted and screening popular clips from Irish film which can be briefly enjoyed while climbing the stairs, or waiting for someone at the bottom.
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The Film Reel N.I

An innovative spatial interpretation of Irish film that engages, stimulates and informs the user by building social connections.

I aim to promote tourism in Northern Ireland
by creating an exciting and inspiring film
exposition space. The space will not only
provide an interesting overview of films
produced and shot in Ireland/N.I, in an
interactive way, but also aims to play with
the emotions of the visitor in the same way
that film does, through careful use of sound
and lighting. It will enlighten both tourists
and local people on the themes within Irish
film, and how they are treated. Through this
I aim to get people back in touch with
local film, and make it more accessible to
young people.

Rebecca Dalzell
BDes (Hons) Belfast, United Kingdom