Historic Architecture

Historic Model 1

Sculpting paper, paint, ink

15''x 17''x 5''

Lightner Museum 

1888

The museum is housed in the former Alcazar Hotel, which was built in 1888 by Henry Flagler, In August 20, 1947, Otto C. Lightner purchased the building to convert the old hotel into a hobbies museum. He used the space to house several collections, including his own extensive collection of Victorian era art. 

Memorial Presbyterian Church

1889

The church's design is inspired by St, Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy, and features Venetian Renaissance style, as well as elements of Spanish, Moorish, Italian, and Baroque styles. The stained glass windows were created by Tiffany studios famous for its multi-color glass designs. Many of the exterior architectural details were created with gold and white terracotta. 

For my paper sculpture model, I combined elements from both Memorial Presbyterian Church and the Lighter Museum. From the church, I used the long arches and stained glass inspiration, layering paper to create textures and colors that mimic the vibrant windows. For the Lighter Museum, I added small paintings inside the model to give it that museum feel with a sense of a curated space. I also used symmetry and verticality, using those to shape the overall structure and add height. The result is a mix of history and art together.

Historic Model 2

Sculpting paper, paint

17'' x 7'' x 8''

Lightner Museum 

1888

Notable for being among the earliest examples of poured concrete buildings in the world. The hotel was designed by Carrere and Hastings, a prominent architecture firm of the Gilded Age. The museum's collection focuses on the Victorian style and the Gilded Age.

Memorial Presbyterian Church

1889

The church is made of concrete mixed with crushed coquina stone, and features Italian marble floors, mahogany pews, and baptismal font carved from Siena marble. In addition the copper dome was created in Italy. Influenced by Renaissance Revival architecture, this style is characterized by its symmetry, columns, and arches. 

For this model, I pulled inspiration from both Memorial Presbyterian Church and the Lighter Museum, but with a fresh approach. I used the church’s arches as the main structure. I added a detail of the twin towers from the church, but laid them down as the base of the sculpture. The fountain in the center is inspired by the gardens outside the Lighter Museum, bringing a calming setting to the design. I also took inspiration from a flower painting inside the museum, incorporating floral patterns into the model to add color and life. By combining the church’s arches, the twin towers, the museum’s art, and the peaceful fountain, I created a space that blends spirituality, nature, and art.