RESEARCH STUDIO

ARCH 354: F 2022

The research studio investigates the many properties that sacred architecture possesses. Research was divided into three distinct units: sacred exploration and research, case studies of buildings enabling a feeling of transcendence, and a site-specific design project for meditation and reflection. Midjourney Artificial Intelligence (AI) was utilized to push the boundaries of creativity and design components in each unit. During sacred exploration, individuals curated collages using AI and Photoshop to render personal perspectives of the relationship between sacred and profane. Discovering what transcendence meant through case studies enabled the education of what architectural elements and moments possess this quality. Students would translate the education gained in the first two units into the final design project.

The project is in the midst of Brookings’ nature park, presently a place of serenity. Aside from working with a partner, the design project contained very few boundaries. The structure, constructed using recycled concrete, was visually designed as an inferior object to nature. The use of various lighting strategies significantly led to the building’s design. These approaches were critical in creating a feeling of serenity for the users of the space. The building sits at the end of an extensive journey through the park. The path prescribes a sense of calmness before reaching the structure.