Retreat Center for Global Initiative + Suicidal
Patient Treatment Center
Site: Central Valley, CA
Design: The contrast between geometry and organic form creates a strong connection between manmade-object and earth, bringing awareness to the scientists’ mission of a global earth stewardship initiative, and providing recovering patients with a balance of seclusion, community space, and connection to the earth for contemplative healing. Organic crevices create unique exterior landscapes and interior “arteries”, allowing natural daylight to enter the center of the buildings. Vertical living spaces challenge our concept of typical living organization, providing all occupants with grand views of the surrounding valley.
Exterior elements: balconies, outlooks, shading devices, cantilevered platforms, and exterior walkways provide spaces for private contemplation.
Materials: plaster, bass wood, piano wire, polystyrene.
Final Models: 6 towers, each approx. 5”x5”x10”, 2002
