# Concaved Cube Concept Designs This Architecture from Steven Holl is Balanced and Elegant By Josh Triantafilou | Published 2012-04-28 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/steven-holl References: [dezeen](http://www.dezeen.com/2012/04/26/new-institute-for-contemporary-art-by-steven-holl-architects/) & [stevenholl](http://www.stevenholl.com/) The [Virginia Commonwealth University](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/keep-collection) campus in Richmond is in for a treat as New York City-based architect Steven Holl recently unveiled his designs for the university's institute of contemporary art. The designs incorporate polygons such as squares and rectangles in curved shapes with breathless ease. These straight lines and [concave forms](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/concav-collection) work together to produce a definite sense of space that will be sure to instill patrons of the institute of contemporary art with an appreciation of proportion and scale. Holl's design does not indulge in the overbearing extravagances that many designers, unfortunately, think substitute for elegance; rather, Holl has envisioned a building that functions on a human-scale. Both the interior and exterior of the building will complement the artwork it will hold rather than overshadow it. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.1/10 - Popularity: 33% | Activity: 23% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Polygonal Design:** Opportunity for exploring the creative use of polygons in architectural design, creating unique and visually striking structures. - **Curved Shapes:** Incorporating curved shapes in architecture to create a sense of flow and harmony, offering new possibilities for spatial design. - **Human-scale Architecture:** Focus on designing buildings that prioritize the human experience, creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture:** An opportunity for architects to incorporate novel design elements and techniques to create innovative and visually captivating structures. - **Art Exhibitions:** Designing exhibition spaces that enhance the artwork, creating an immersive and visually engaging experience for visitors. - **Education:** Introducing innovative architectural designs in educational institutions to inspire creativity and create stimulating learning environments. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Design Collection-Honored Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hudson-lhouse.md) - [Curved Translucent Experimental Apartments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sculptors-apartment.md) - [Clover-Style Conference Center Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zgc-international-innovation-center.md) - [Glass Pavilion Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/diller-scofidio-renfro2.md) - [Landscape-Concealed Cultural Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chaohu-natural-and-cultural-centre.md) - [Building-Nestled Compact Cafes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chapel-cafe.md) - [Arched Garden-Topped Cultural Centers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hengqin-culture-and-art-complex.md) - [Redesigned Curved Apartments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/taichung-apartment.md) - [Geometric African Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/great-primary-shapes.md)