The Stone Barn Meditation Camp is designed to create a space for relaxation and social activities within a natural setting. Surrounded by a forest, field, valley, and a small river, the design emphasizes a connection to nature. It draws inspiration from historical courtyards found in ancient civilizations. These sheltered outdoor areas foster community and family interactions, which the design aims to replicate.

Conceptual Foundations

At the heart of the camp lies a central courtyard that serves as a gathering space for visitors. This courtyard encourages engagement with nature and other guests. A linear pathway leads from the parking area to key facilities, enhancing accessibility. The placement of the new buildings is intentional, maximizing sunlight during the long winter months. This ensures a warm and inviting environment for all who visit.

Architectural Composition

The camp features several interconnected structures that define the courtyard. This arrangement promotes a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The rooflines vary in design; the main building has a pitched roof adapted for climate conditions, while the meditation room and sauna feature a flat roof influenced by mid-20th-century Modernism. This mixture of shapes adds visual interest and practical benefits. Steps and seating areas near the canal encourage guests to gather and enjoy their surroundings.

Functional Diversity

The hotel structure is designed to accommodate over twenty guests and includes essential amenities. These include a kitchen, restrooms, a reception area, and a quiet room for reflection on the second level. The main communal space is flexible, allowing for various activities and meetings. It opens up to the outdoors during warmer months, creating a connection between inside and outside. The older building section has been adapted with irregular window placements. By transforming it into a one-story structure with some mezzanine areas, it retains its historical character while meeting modern needs.

Material Considerations

Material choice plays an important role in the design. The façade is made of light-colored concrete, selected for its thermal and acoustic properties. This material helps maintain comfortable indoor conditions and allows the new structures to connect visually with the existing building. The concrete's neutrality supports the overall design by blending into the landscape and allowing for future adaptations, like the addition of solar panels.

The meditation room and sauna overlook the canal, enhancing the connection between the indoors and the natural world. Guests can enjoy peaceful views while engaging with the calming environment around them.