ONE WITH EARTH is a meditation pavilion designed to create a strong connection between its users and the natural landscape. Positioned on a hillside, the design invites users to engage with their surroundings through a carefully planned pathway leading to the cabin. This approach encourages a sense of calmness and contemplation, fostering a deeper relationship between the built environment and the earth.

Construction and Materiality

The pavilion primarily uses rammed earth as its construction material, sourced from the site. This choice strengthens the connection to local geology while ensuring the structure's durability and sustainability. Users can feel and interact with the textured walls of rammed earth, establishing a physical link to the environment. The method of using traditional materials aligns with the project's focus on spirituality and mindfulness.

Spatial Experience and Light

An important element of the design is how light is used within the space. An opening in the northern wall allows sunlight to enter, illuminating the interior and highlighting a flower altar. This feature becomes a central point for meditation. The careful arrangement of light and shadow enhances the overall atmosphere and encourages users to reflect as they observe changes throughout the day.

User-Centric Design

The layout of the pavilion encourages a thoughtful approach as users walk down the pathway. The gentle slope influences how quickly individuals move, inviting them to slow down and prepare for meditation. This setup fosters awareness of the natural environment, helping users transition into a more reflective state before entering the enclosed space.

Construction Techniques

The building process emphasizes accessibility, allowing the owners of the Earth Energies Sanctuary to take part in creating the pavilion. Techniques include utilizing locally sourced plywood for formwork, layering damp earth, and using pneumatic tampers for compaction. This hands-on approach promotes community involvement and highlights the connection between the construction process and the theme of unity with nature.

As users approach the pavilion, they shift from the expansive landscape to an intimate interior, framed by a wide roof structure that connects the space to the sky, inviting nature into their meditative practice.