I intend to redesign the space in the north building studio, following the concept of 'healing communities' in Connecting Learning, by transforming the original teaching spaces into healing areas for students to relax and unwind with associated meditation rooms, counselling rooms, yoga rooms and other healing function spaces. The design will focus on natural elements, taking advantage of geography and light. At the same time, this project would get healing power from birds by the advantage of the number of surrounding birds. So the birdwatching point would be the highlight in this project. I focus on the people in our school who needs psychological help. I will Creating an atmosphere and leading the sense of my clients’‘security’ will be my key design direction for this project.
XinweiWu
Project description
Inspiration
I was inspired by the real experience of watching newborn birds every day in my accommodation, which made me feel something healing my depression from nature. As my theme revolves around designing a space that heals the soul, it has prompted me to embark on an exploration of the soul-soothing effects that birds bring to people. As an international student, over the past year, I've keenly felt the richness and diversity of bird species in the Scottish city of Edinburgh. The urban birds that are commonly seen here, such as pigeons, seagulls, crows, swallows, woodpeckers, and more, are a constant presence. In contrast to the 23 years I've spent in Shanghai, Edinburgh, as a capital city, has truly impressed me with its abundant natural environment and birds that are unafraid of human presence. This has nurtured a sense of affinity. between this city and nature, resulting in a greater sense of tranquility within me compared to the bustling modernity of Shanghai.
This tranquility is likely linked to the intimate connection between Edinburgh and nature. The numerous nature reserves and coastal areas surrounding the city provide habitats for birds, and they offer city dwellers ample opportunities to connect with nature and observe birds.
Therefore, I intend to leverage this advantage and the inherent power of nature to create an indoor sanctuary at the foot of the castle that provides solace and stress relief, in line with my theme of healing the soul.
Progressive Privacy Tiering Design
Considering the project's focus on psychological healing, where counseling is a particularly private matter, I've segregated the M Floor from the K and L Floors. The overall functional design, progressing from bottom to top, follows a step-by-step approach to privacy enhancement.
Plans and Sections
Birdwatching Platform Design
This platform's design revolves around the core of my theme, "Healing Nest." Given the direct connection I want to establish with the avian world, I've chosen dark wood as the primary material. Research indicates that birds feel more secure around wood colors, greenery, and shades of gray. Some bird species are drawn to vibrant vegetation. I crafted a design that complements the existing environment while providing a safe haven for both humans and birds. I've incorporated artificial bird shelters for species like the swifts, ensuring their safety and providing a sanctuary. These shelters are positioned atop the bird observation platform, maintaining a safe distance between them and people, creating a conducive environment for them to dwell peacefully.
The platform design features three tiers. The first level comprises stairs and a platform for human bird-watching. Inspired by nearby architecture, like the arched entrances of the Main Building, the exposed railings adopt an arched shape with mesh for safety. The top layer is adorned with artificial greenery and shelters for birds, providing them a safe haven while enabling human-nature interaction.
Renderings
This image primarily depicts the entrance to the staggered walkway between Floor K and Floor L within the atrium space. On this walkway, individuals can sit on the designed seating within the staggered structure to rest, enjoy birdwatching, and admire the greenery. This setup ensures a safe distance from the birds and plants while also preserving the viewing area for the reading space behind the glass on Floor L. The wooden bird observation platform on the left side is relatively small, ideal for a few people to engage in birdwatching. In this area, I've created an indoor atmosphere resembling a forest and a cozy cabin by integrating greenery with the bird observation platform. This scene also showcases the scenario when birds perch in this area.
The Central Area of Floor L
This image illustrates the central area of Floor L. I've chosen furniture materials that echo the wooden elements of the indoor garden space. It's evident that this is a spacious area primarily divided by curved partitions. People can choose from various scenes according to their needs, whether it's for resting, reading, or writing. They can sit on the seats near the greenery to enjoy both birdwatching and the lush plants. Alternatively, they can utilize the smaller semi-circular spaces for activities. Furthermore, I've showcased a scene with a windowsill where people can feed the birds.
The Ground-floor Atrium Walkway Area
This image presents a scene in the ground-floor atrium walkway area, revealing the specific extent of the indoor garden. It's a spacious pathway near the Cafe where people can interact and appreciate the nearby greenery. Compared to Floor L and Floor M, this area is more open, attracting a greater number of individuals. People can also look up and observe the paths of individuals moving along the staggered walkway. The Meditation Studio in Floor K is also connected to this area, featuring a curved floor-to-ceiling window that creates an ambiance for meditation, allowing people to face the trees while meditating.
Yoga Studio
This image showcases the functional space of Floor L – the Yoga Studio. People can enjoy the indoor garden of the atrium while engaging in their workout routines. Additionally, I've adorned the studio area near the floor-to-ceiling windows with real indoor plants. The indoor and outdoor environments harmonize, utilizing the power of plants, sunlight, and the positive energy of birds to encourage a more relaxed yoga practice for individuals indoors.
XinweiWu
