The Academie MWD by Carlos Arroyo Relies on Optical Illusions

The Academie MWD is an unusual bit of architecture that relies on optical illusions to fit in. The area it is situated in provided a unique challenge to the architect. Carlos Arroyo undertook that challenge with no shortage of zeal or creativity. Surrounded by mountains to the south, a protected forest on the north side, a concert hall east and a suburban neighborhood to the west, the Academie MWD needed to make sense on all sides.

The Madrid-based architect achieved that first through its jagged shape that mimicked both the mountains and the roofs of the homes. Secondly, the Academie MWD was given a vertically ridged facade that changed depending on the angle it was viewed. Sometimes the Academie MWD looked like a pack of Starburst at other times it disappeared completely due to an image of the forest printed on the other side of the metal slats.