3rd Year Project
Duration: 8 Weeks
Medicine Park, OK
The concept of this eco-resort revolves around making the circulation serve a more programmatic purpose while also simulating the experience of nature in a controlled environment. The resort relates to the surrounding tourist destination, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. It draws inspiration from this natural place by incorporating activities such as rock climbing, which is highly prevalent within the refuge. The rock climbing walls function as both an activity and a means of vertical circulation, which relates back to the concept. These walls are made out of stone blocks that are arranged to make an undulating wall that allows for climbing. Some of the stone components are voided and replaced with a glass screen to allow light to penetrate the space and permit views outward. With the large curtain wall facing north, inhabitants are able to view nature as they climb. The same rock climbing wall feature is repeated on the exterior façade and allows it to be an outdoor activity as well. Rooms for the guests face northwest to provide optimal views of Mt. Scott, the most prominent feature of the area. The form of the building is a simple rectilinear volume; however, the interior provides a dynamic atmosphere through the formation of the rock walls. The simplicity of the exterior does not overpower nature, but instead, compliments it and emphasizes its natural beauty with harmony with the man-made.