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The Spine – Exterior Perspective/© Masood Koochaki
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The Spine: A Celebration of Mardi Gras and Collective Presence
PrizeHonorable Mention in Architectural Design / Cultural Architecture
University/SchoolLouisiana State University
Lead ArchitectMasood Koochaki
The Spine: A Celebration of Mardi Gras and Collective Presence The Spine is a community center in New Orleans’ Seventh Ward, translating Mardi Gras’ ephemeral parade into a permanent architectural spine. It unifies parades, workshops, theaters, and exhibition spaces along a central procession path, echoing float movement. Mass timber construction and a wave-like canopy embody craft and dynamism. Façade patterns reference African, Caribbean, Creole, and Indigenous textiles, making the building a year-round stage, archive, and gathering space celebrating collective presence.