Meditation Cabin
Studio II. Fall 2019. Lead by Prof. Elise Sells
In Fall 2019, I undertook the design of a meditation cabin situated in Vogafijos Farm Resort, Northern Iceland. The cabin's essential features included a meditation space, a sleeping room, an outdoor hot tub, and a footpath connecting it to a nearby guest house.
To begin, I initiated the project by considering a conventional and unremarkable farm shed as the starting point. However, after conducting a thorough site analysis, I made a pivotal decision to deviate from the ordinary. I opted for an irregular shape that would resonate with the surrounding glaciers and the natural environment. The design concept originated from two asymmetrical triangles on each side, mirroring the shape of glaciers. Subsequently, I further deconstructed this form into smaller triangles, symbolizing the disintegration of glaciers caused by global warming. Throughout this creative process, my primary objective remained centered on representing irregular shapes harmoniously with nature.
Site Plan, Site Section
Story Board 1
I began by creating a map of Iceland, and then I zoomed in to focus on the specific site. The drawings provided on the side, depict both the site section and the site plan for the selected location of the meditation cabin.
Plan Drawing & Elevation Drawing
Story Board 2
The primary and pivotal floor of the design, the first floor, serves as the meditation space featuring a recycled water feature or waterfall. Additionally, this space provides direct access to the connected outdoor hot tub.
Concept Diagrams
Story Board 3
The top three diagrams serve as concept illustrations to exemplify my design thinking:
​
Diagram 1: An abstract depiction illustrating the manipulation and rotation of triangles to create the cabin's unique form.
​
Diagram 2: A representation of my initial concept, which visualizes the cabin as two icebergs, embodied by the irregular shape of the structure.
​
Diagram 3: Symbolized by a candle, this diagram conveys the dual essence of my cabin design: soft lighting and relaxation.
​
Lastly, there is a drawing of the model, exploded upwards, offering a clear view of both the cabin's interior and exterior.
Experience
Story Board 4
This is an interior perspective drawing of the cabin, showcasing the view of the mountains and the northern lights through the expansive panoramic window.