5 key facts about this project
"From Ground to Air" is a space designed to create a meaningful connection between people and nature. Located in a setting that encourages calmness and reflection, the project functions primarily as a pathway for yoga practitioners. The central idea is to guide occupants through various experiences, leading them from a grounded beginning to a sense of elevation and calm.
Site Integration
The journey starts with a bamboo walkway that serves as the main route across the site. This walkway meets a rammed earth wall, which provides a strong and solid presence. The wall mirrors the colors and textures of the local landscape, allowing it to blend in while still standing out. Functional areas for rest, changing, and washing are carved into the wall, highlighting practicality within the design.
Spatial Progression
As users move along the walkway, they navigate through spaces that transition from open to enclosed. The western side of the path is open to the elements, inviting fresh air and light, while the eastern side offers a more sheltered experience. Lush foliage lines the walkway, and openings in the structure allow plants to spill onto the path, enhancing the connection to the landscape and creating a richer atmosphere.
Verticality and Light
An important element of the design is the yoga studio, positioned above the walkway. Large windows provide a flow of natural light, and they frame views of the nearby zen garden. A clerestory window further illuminates the space, ensuring it feels open and bright. The presence of exposed timber beams adds structural support, while creating a visual frame that draws attention to the surrounding environment.
Community Space
When participants leave the yoga studio via a rammed earth staircase, they find themselves in the zen garden. This space offers a serene setting for reflection and community. With seating around a fire pit, individuals can gather and share experiences while enjoying the natural backdrop. The garden serves as the concluding part of the journey, emphasizing the shift from the focused practice of yoga to a tranquil outdoor space that encourages relaxation and connection.