Architecture project // Wooden Pathway Ascending from Earth Beneath a Reflection Pool

Wooden Pathway Ascending from Earth Beneath a Reflection Pool

Authors:

Noah Ryzewicz, Jack Dalgleish-Morel, John Yoon, Connor Scoffield

A pathway made of wooden members guides visitors from a secluded reflection pool beneath the earth to a symbol of life above, creating a unique space for contemplation and connection in a columbarium.

5 key facts about this project

A reflection pool is positioned at the lowest depth, encouraging personal contemplation.

The wooden pathway symbolizes the ascent from the earth to a universal symbol of life.

Niche excavations create direct connections to the afterlife throughout the columbarium.

Structural wooden columns enhance the integration of the building with its natural surroundings.

A helical ramp facilitates movement while guiding visitors toward a central gathering space.

General keywords

columbarium reflection nature contemplation wood niche pathway water tree spirituality

Project specific keywords

reflection pool wooden columns helical ramp niche excavation earth descent

The columbarium presents a space that reflects on life and mortality through thoughtful architectural design. Set within a natural landscape, it leads users on a journey that begins with a descent into the earth. The overall concept revolves around creating a connection to themes of the afterlife, guiding visitors through a carefully arranged sequence of spaces that encourages contemplation and reflection.

Conceptual Framework

The design symbolizes the transition between life and death. Visitors enter and descend to a reflection pool located at the lowest point. This pool acts as a focal point for personal and spiritual contemplation, inviting travelers to pause and engage deeply with their thoughts. The surrounding environment enhances this contemplative experience, making the space feel both intimate and profound.

Spatial Organization

As visitors ascend from the depths, they follow a path made from wooden members. This upward journey signifies a rise from the earth, culminating at a tree, which represents growth and vitality. The path serves both a functional role and enhances the narrative of life and decay throughout the experience, connecting users more closely to the themes of the design.

Connection to Nature

Essential elements within the context plan include structural wooden columns that provide support while integrating the architectural form with the natural setting. Niche excavations add depth to the design, allowing for meaningful connections to the afterlife. A viewing platform is also included, promoting interaction with the landscape and encouraging visitors to reflect on their place within it.

Circulation and Interaction

Circulation paths are intentionally designed around water, which acts as a point for reflection. A helical ramp guides users upward, leading them toward the representation of life at the top of the structure. Various elevations highlight how the interior relates to the exterior, and the ground floor plan showcases thoughtfully arranged spaces that invite user engagement with the project’s themes.

The reflection pool, situated at the lowest level, provides a calm area for contemplation, framing the journey of existence within a peaceful and natural environment.