A Balance of Simplicity and Complexity
Wabi-sabi is about finding beauty in imperfection enhanced by passage of time, to slow down, in order to experience the moment more mindfully, and also add value among the everyday. Inherent in the creation of an environment conducive to this intimate experience, the project takes the form of a pavilion situated at a marginal corner outside of the Design Center on the Woodbury University Campus.
The design and construction of the pavilion acts as a laboratory for material tectonics aimed at orchestrating an itinerary of sensorial engagement. The method of shou sugi ban, otherwise known as "cedar burning" is explored to create a material context that embraces the manifestation of interiority and exteriority. This set of experiences forges the relationship between the interior and nature. It also admits a personal reframing of the marginal landscape to elevate the experience of the everyday.
5 study models analyzing space, experience, comfort and view, of which the form gradually took shape. Each one took different information into account, for instance how much room is needed before the user starts feeling claustrophobic, the visibility of surroundings, and angle at which sitting is the most comfortable and natural experience.
Conduction of a full scale volumetric mock-up on the site to determine how much space is needed, where the view should be facing, and how to incorporate the natural landscape into the new built environment.
Through a material study, cedar wood was chosen as the material because i tis well known for its fragrance and use in both interior and exterior spaces. The wood was used in two ways, first it was planed and kept in its natural state so that the wood could age naturally with time and use; second the technique of cedar burning was used which is a process that renders the wood nearly maintenance free and makes it more resistant to fire, rot and pests. By burning the wood, it enhances the cedar smell which helps to encourage a calming experience.
Landscaping of the bushes was done with hemp cord because in the "natural wall," there are two systems of geometries; the upper portion is a thicker brush with a condensed amount of leaves, while the lower portion consists of vines and branches. In order to make the "natural wall" cohesive, lines of help were brought up from the vines and used to fill in the gaps within the brush.
While building, I noticed that there were mistakes that were made when hammering, for example, the nail was bent of there were dead knots in the wood and I decided to emphasize those imperfections by burning a ring around those spots. It is done purposefully to bring attention to the mistakes and to place an emphasis on the fact that the imperfections are beautiful.
