Meditation was chosen as the guiding principle for this student wellness center and as a starting point for looking at different modes of wellness practice. It is a skill not only for health, but self defense and survival in an increasingly stimulating and stressful world. Light and shadow define the use and decorum of different spaces and allow the programming to be read easily and comprehended quickly. The upper level is awash with sunlight, stimulating movement, brightening moods, and creating an atmosphere of energy and excitement. In contrast, shade and darkness are used to signal more quiet, tranquil places. Each meditation room makes sparing use of light to create tranquil contemplative spaces. The ramp that connects these two spaces is a journey from light to dark, beginning with large amounts of daylighting that gradually fade as visitors descend to the lower level. The roof that enfolds the center also engages with light and shadow: the facets glow when light is bounced on them or recede into shadows that allow the structure to gradually melt away, rather than impose strict dimensions on visitors.
Folded space is used to create unusual, intriguing spaces whose dimensions do not “box in” center visitors, but rather express dimension in dynamic and interesting ways. As the roof moves downhill and toward the meditation spaces, the facets gradually order themselves and diminish until the roof glides smoothly over the meditation rooms.
Folded space is used to create unusual, intriguing spaces whose dimensions do not “box in” center visitors, but rather express dimension in dynamic and interesting ways. As the roof moves downhill and toward the meditation spaces, the facets gradually order themselves and diminish until the roof glides smoothly over the meditation rooms.