The objective of this 7-day competition was to design an observatory where the blind and visually impaired visitors at the Burkeville Lodge in VA can experience nature.
My approach to this prompt began with a concept of isolating the senses, so the individual can focus on one feeling in its fullest. Sound is one of the first senses I explored, which is constant throughout the building as a means of wayfinding as well as observation of water sounds. The opening hallway has a quiet listening experience to the trickles of water that flow down the sides, coming from the waterfalls in the main space. This compression and sudden expansion not only lets the visitor immediately feel how big the space is upon entering, but also allows them to sit and listen to this feature.
The stone path on the floor contrasts in texture to the tile, for wayfinding purposes. This can be felt underfoot, white cane, or wheelchair to aid in navigating the space.
A wind tunnel is created through wall openings in the next area, where one can feel the wind on their skin, smell native flower and plants aromas, and listen to birdsong.
Listening to the echo, you'll be able to notice non-visually where the exit is because of the loud and expansive dome around the corner. The walls are adorned with stained glass, to create a glimmering dazzling effect on the eyes. (85% of visually impaired people can actually see light and shadow and love looking at reflective surfaces).
Designed in Revit and rendered in Lumion.
