Musings.

In this post I will include the diagrams and sketch work which led to my current cabin design. I attempted to incorporate as many of the concepts used in Kundig's cabin as possible, as well as applying his use of form, materials, and structure.

The first diagram represents another way of manipulating space for dramatic effect. the use of narrow entranceway, and floating second level blocks the vision of those entering, giving the illusion of a small space. Once they move past the floating level however, a huge space opens up. The second level also provides a good vantage point for views of local landscape.

 Using tiny windows along a walkway provides small glimpses of the space beyond, heightening anticipation, while still hiding most of what is to come. This is similar to the side window used in the master bedroom at chicken point, which is clearly noticable, but not easily seen through.

 The plot is set out with the lake and river system on the northern side of the area. The axis shown in this diagram represents the views.

These are some of my form concepts. In keeping with the simplicity of Chicken Point, I opted to use a box-like shape to begin with, and included large structural beams to support the roof and strcture. These I wanted to be visible on both the exterior and interior, to give a real sense of structure, and to dwarf those standing near the monolithic beams.

After playing with the box shape for a while, I stumbled across the idea of intersecting walls. These walls correspond to the wiews and axis shown in an earlier diagram. The idea of blocking out unwanted views, such as neighbouring houses, whilst keeping the local scenery is core to the design. I also particularly liked the idea of using as few walls as possible in the building, in keeping with Kundig's style at Chicken Point.

Another important facet of Toms work is the mechanical aspect, one which I really wanted to emulate. After much deliberation and a number of failed attempts, the idea I came up with was including an observatorium-like roof and wall in the master bedroom, which opens up to the sky. This, I unoriginally nicknamed 'The Observatory'.

The roof can be opened and closed at will, by a hand crank on the wall in the bedroom. This adds a dynamic element to the dynamic filtering of the building. It also allows users to feel as if they are sleeping under the stars, in the complete safety and comfort of their beds.

Some preliminary sketches of my design.