Infinity 淼

One version of Chinese characters that symbolizes the word “infinity” features three “water” that is arranged in a triangular style. What better way to capture the essence of infinity? The continuous cycle of water as it transitions from one state to another is a part of the experience that this proposal hopes to capture when developed. These states of water gave inspiration to different conceptual forms of the design. The literal sense of transitioning from solid to fluid or the metaphorical sense of rising up like the state of vaporization are all sought after and developed. These ideas were then formed into different programmatic elements that gave rise to the proposal of a wellness retreat. One where an individual can experience the different states of water as they transition from dry to wet, then dry again.

The proposal is set within a ruin off of a hiking trail. When tackling the idea of responding to the built environment, the proposal both respects and interacts with the ruin. Inspirations of openings were derived based on the proportions given by the existing ruin, while also stepping back from the ruin. The proposal then breaks off and develops a juxtaposing mass that encompasses the “wet” building with pools and saunas. Lastly, the site is right off of the creek that runs through the trail. The proposal sought to embrace the sound of rushing water instead of concealing it. As there is peace within the constant bombardment of the roaring white noise. Certain spaces are places near the river in order to add a layer of auditory experience.