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Assignment 3: Cliff Hideout
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This is the final assignment for this module. We are given an imaginary space between two cliffs with an area of approximately 6x15m, and we are restricted to use not more than 70% of the floor area given. We are advised by our tutor to explore as much as we can in design, not to be restricted by structural limitations and considerations.
The original idea of my hideout is to create a space where the borderline between nature and artifice does not exist. The hideout is to inherit the boldness of the barren, rocky cliffs and have a raw and organic finish, while bridges, columns/pillars and furniture are of a softer and gentle appearance, that resembles nature. Later I was told by my tutor that the resemblance of nature in my hideout are too literal (bridge made of huge branches intertwined together), so I had to think deeper on how to present the feeling of nature in my hideout.
My second mock up, on the left. I added a roof above the library space, to shelter the library in order to provide a comfortable and safe environment for reading. the roof is made of triangular and quadrilateral shapes, arranged in a dynamical way, representing the everchanging nature full of surprises and unexpected events. Holes of varying shapes are cut unto the roof, to filter sunlight in a way like a big, shady tree would. The filtered sunlight are shattered and scattered across the space, providing not only light but a serene and enticing atmosphere.
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Photos below are how it looks like in the final product. Most of the shattered lights are focused on the bench area for a better reading experience.
The repetitive sequence of columns are placed vertically with slight variation of different angles sprouting from the ground, supporting the first floor. Some of the columns penetrate the first floor, and reach up to the second floor, which also acts as the roof, for two main reasons: decoration and support.
They resemble organic nature which is imperfect, with trees that never repeats itself in the vast area of a forest, implying that every tree in a forest is unique and special.
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The varying yet repetitive placement of columns instills excitement and a sense of uncontrollable, dynamical presence.
This is the third mockup. Similar to the hierarchy of a rainforest, the hideout consist of four layers, which is from bottom to top, the forest floor (the ground), the understory (the ground floor, which is the space between the sequence of columns), above that the canopy layer (which is the first floor, also acts as the roof for the ground floor/understory layer, where the library and lounge area is located), and finally the emergent layer (which is the second floor, the gardens and also the roof for the first floor/canopy layer)
The Final Product:
Consist of four main spaces: the Chamber, the Library, the Lounge, and the Garden.
Below: the Chamber. Consist of a bed+bench/chair structure for sleeping and resting.
Above: the Library area.
On the left: the garden/roof area. Consist of a bench+table structure for resting, landscape viewing, picnic, or other usage.
On the left: shows the heavy circulation area of the hideout. There are four ramps (or bridge), and a staircase (connecting the first floor to the second floor/roof) in this area. The only other staircase in the hideout is at the front, being the entrance staircase.
Presentation Board
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