Serweta Peck Reimagines Historic Canal Building into Versatile Art Hub

The Medina Triennial Hub, a project by Serweta Peck, stands as a testament to inventive architectural transformation. This initiative has breathed new life into a historic edifice situated along New York's iconic Erie Canal, converting it into a dynamic center for an upcoming art triennial. Serving as a crucial component of a larger artistic endeavor aimed at revitalizing industrial towns along the canal, the Hub is envisioned as a communal 'living room'—a versatile space for artistic gatherings, educational workshops, lectures, and film screenings. It also acts as a welcoming nexus for guests, staff, and resident artists during the triennial's duration.

Celebrating Heritage and Innovation Through Sustainable Design

Revitalizing a Landmark: The Medina Triennial Hub's Vision

Serweta Peck embarked on the ambitious endeavor of repurposing a significant historical building, transforming it into the Medina Triennial Hub. This project is a cornerstone of an art triennial, strategically located on the Erie Canal in Medina, New York. Its purpose extends beyond an exhibition space, aiming to rejuvenate former industrial centers along the canal by fostering community engagement and artistic expression.

Crafting Versatility: Flexible Furniture from Reclaimed Materials

In collaboration with architecture students from SUNY Buffalo, Serweta Peck meticulously designed and constructed all interior furnishings for the Hub. Emphasizing the Triennial's core themes of endurance and environmental stewardship, the furniture pieces, affectionately named 'Objects Of Affection,' were crafted from locally acquired and recycled resources. This hands-on, research-driven process involved extensive teamwork, experimentation, and prototyping, resulting in adaptable designs suitable for diverse events and programs.

Inspiration from the Everyday: Challenging Conventional Design

Drawing inspiration from commonplace materials and Enzo Mari's 'Autoprogettazione'—a concept that advocates for DIY furniture using readily available items—the design team challenged traditional approaches to temporary event architecture. They deliberately employed unconventional and environmentally conscious materials and construction methods, moving away from the typical 'design, build, then discard' cycle often associated with large-scale cultural events.

Echoes of History: Connecting the Interior to the Canal's Legacy

The interior design of the Hub subtly references its historical context. The existing structural elements, such as the steel framework and masonry, were revealed by removing previous coverings, while the original tin ceiling was carefully maintained. A distinct teal epoxy 'water line' on the floor, walls, and columns, inspired by vintage postcards of the Erie Canal, visually ties the space to the waterway's fluctuating levels. This unifying color palette integrates the diverse furniture pieces, further enhancing the narrative of the site.

A Treasure Trove of Reclaimed Resources: Materials with a Story

The furniture pieces themselves are a mosaic of reclaimed materials, each with its own history. These include recycled wine corks set in hydrocal, polystyrene foam from student models, wood chip waste encapsulated in bio-resin, discarded plotter paper tubes, laminated recycled cardboard, and various offcut lumber. Notably, the New York Power Authority contributed seven colossal pieces of 200-year-old oak, previously submerged during the construction of the Erie Canal's lock system, adding a profound historical layer to the furnishings.

The Life Cycle of Art: Post-Triennial Sustainability

After its grand opening in September 2025 and full activation from June to September 2026, the Medina Triennial Hub will continue its commitment to sustainability. Following the Triennial, the 'Objects Of Affection' will be put up for auction, sold, donated, or relocated, ensuring their continued utility. Alternatively, they can be responsibly dismantled and recycled, underscoring the project's dedication to an enduring and environmentally sound legacy.