The Earth Sanctuary pavilion is located outside the United Nations Headquarters in New York and serves as both an educational space and an art installation centered on soil conservation. The design concept highlights the vital role that earth plays in sustaining life and addresses the urgent need to protect it from pollution and degradation. Structured with twelve radiating fingers that extend from a central point, each finger represents one of the twelve major soil types, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Structural Composition

The structure primarily uses rammed earth, featuring twelve different colors that correspond to each soil type. This material choice emphasizes the rich diversity in soil and supports sustainable building practices. The colored rammed earth walls enhance the architectural design by visually conveying the variety of earth found around the world. This focus reinforces the importance of conserving our soil resources.

Spatial Experience

Visitors can explore the pavilion along thoughtfully designed pathways that connect each of the twelve fingers. Each finger highlights samples of raw earth, allowing for tactile engagement and a deeper understanding of soil composition and health. The layout promotes a sense of discovery, inviting visitors to navigate the space and learn about the significance of soil conservation as well as the consequences of soil degradation.

Artistic Narrative

The walls also function as artistic displays, featuring images of landscapes affected by soil pollution. These illustrations support the educational purpose of the pavilion by providing context to the urgent need for soil management. The combination of art and architecture enriches the visitor experience, blending aesthetic appeal with important information about environmental stewardship.

The design incorporates a thoughtful connection between nature and built form, with the rammed earth walls presenting a tactile surface that reflects the essence of the pavilion’s focus. This design invites close observation and interaction, enhancing the relationship between people and the earth within this unique space.