The goal was to integrate nature into the design through the use of natural materials. A minimal palette of travertine stone, natural oak wood and concrete was applied throughout the space due to its presence in the original building. Using natural materials is an important part of the design scheme because it is an extension of wellness. The aim was to bring in nature through subtle and indirect ways in order to maintain a connection with nature without sacrificing the overall aesthetic.
First Floor Lighting Plan
Second Floor Lighting Plan
As the aim is to control the amount of light present in the space, multiple apertures and sky lights were incorporated in the scheme to maximize the natural light received.
As the aim is to control the amount of light present in the space, multiple apertures and sky lights were incorporated in the scheme to maximize the natural light received. This was achieved by first exploring the light with card sketch models of both versions of the thresholds in relation to the facade
Diagram of Threshold Location on First and Second Floor Plan
The materials used are natural oak flooring which carries on from the lounge and across the internal garden. Apertures are strategically placed to allow small amounts of light into the space. A 100mm wide window was placed at 1700mm high with a view into the internal garden
Wood was strategically used in the entrance threshold because it is proven to have healing properties and reduce stress levels. This provides the residents a cleansing experience before they enter the flat. A consecutive timber detail was applied to the wardrobes which was inspired by the repetitive facade design. Built in wardrobes are mirrored on either side containing hooks, a rail and a pull out drawer. The wardrobe also includes a bench for the residents to sit and take their shoes off.
Section of Private and Communal Internal Gardens with Roof Light Detail
Internal Garden Final Design
Axo showing the kitchenette, bathroom and double height internal garden. With aperture details providing light for the two standard bedrooms.
Work Space and Aperture Detail Looking into the Internal Garden
‘Premium Bedroom’ Built in Shelving Unit
Premium Bedroom
An angle window sill was designed to maximize the light in the bedroom. This was done to resolve the issue of having a thin aperture in a thick wall. Apertures face into the premium bed room as well as the standard bedroom on the first and second floor.
A simple aesthetic was used in the standard bedrooms . The bathrooms are made of travertine tile and the floors made of oak in the bedroom. The repetitive timer detail was applied to the wardrobes connecting along the roof to the work space.
Standard Bedroom Final Design
An enclosed stairway was designed with the intention of limiting the light present in order to give the residents a reprieve from light as they use the staircase
Social Seating Area
Enclosed Stair Detail & Secluded Reading Nook
Final outcome of lounge and furniture plan. Minimalist furniture was selected so that the attention was not taken away from the natural materials and the light and shadow. Oak wood flooring was carried on through the entry threshold and internal gardens.
Final Design Showing Light and Shadow in the Space
Due to the fact the kitchen is located on the inside of the building with no walls connecting it to the outdoors, we have inserted skylights to rectify the lack of natural lighting.
Final Renders of Kitchen
Final Floor Plan: First Floor
Final Floor Plan: Second Floor
Material Collages for The Room of Contemplation
Development Models
Ground Floor Plan
Secluded ‘nooks’ were designed on both sides of the space to allow the users a private seating area and view into the internal gardens. The nooks were cast out of concrete to create an enclosed and intimate environment.
Illustration of Nooks With View to the Internal Garden
First Floor Plan
Development Models
As the light transitions around the space throughout the day, it will create different light and dark environments. This gives residents the opportunity to have an interaction with both. Communal seating arrangements along with more secluded nooks were designed so that residents can meet their wellness needs in a private or group setting.
Throughout the space, the residents have the option to have direct views into the large internal gardens or occupy the space in the shadows created.
Due to the fact that the function of the space is to facilitate inner healing, a minimal material palette was used because it is suggested that using a large amount of one material in a space reduces brain function. This approach will limit distractions so that the user can get into a deeper reflective, even meditative, state. Concrete was chosen because it allows for more control and creativity in the design due to its versatility. Polished concrete was used on the walls parallel to the facade and rows of offset cast concrete tiles were used on the other two sides
Render of Proposed Lighting Scheme
'Room of Contemplation' Final Design