5 key facts about this project
The design explores themes of mortality and its connection to nature through the concept of "Invisible Chambers." The project sits within a forest, featuring hidden niches that encourage quiet contemplation of life and death. By integrating these niches into the natural landscape, the design reflects a respectful acknowledgment of mortality as part of the human experience, blending built forms with their surroundings.
Design Concept
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The aim is to express acceptance of death as a part of the natural cycle. Niches are thoughtfully concealed among birch trees, utilizing reflective surfaces that help them merge into the environment. This approach symbolizes the often-hidden aspects of mortality, illustrating how life and death coexist in the natural world.
Cultural Inspiration
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The layout is influenced by the ancient Latvian pattern known as Austra. This pattern adds a layer of cultural significance and serves as a metaphor for the connections between past, present, and future. By incorporating such elements, the design creates a space that encourages thoughtfulness and reflection, allowing people to consider their place in the flow of time.
Terrain and Water Management
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Attention to the terrain is crucial, especially given the temperate broad-leaved forest climate of Latvia. The design includes small slopes that manage rainwater, guiding it to specific areas where puddles form during rainfall. This strategy not only enhances the site's visual interest but also reinforces the underlying theme of interconnectedness between human-made spaces and the natural environment.
Materials and Construction
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The niches are made from black frosted marble and encased in mirrored stainless steel. These materials serve practical and aesthetic purposes. The reflective stainless steel allows the niches to blend in with the surroundings, while the marble adds a contrasting texture. Together, they create a visual representation of the relationship between people and nature, echoing the main ideas behind the design.
The detailed approach captures the essence of life and death, with niches that are subtly integrated into the forest. This careful placement and choice of materials invite reflection, providing space for contemplation in a tranquil environment.