Intersection of Biophilia

This ambulatory health clinic located off of Prices Fork Road in Blacksburg, Virginia combines natural elements and features of biophilic design. Biophilia , the love of life and nature, is shown to have significant healing benefits when implemented in the design of healthcare spaces - either directly or indirectly. Two volumes, one using wood and the other masonry, intersect to combine natural materials.

Inspired by the High Line project in New York City, the idea for an active green roof walking path has been the primary driver in the design of this health care facility. The initial concept featured a golden rectangle based scheme where the building formed a loop around the central grouping of trees, enclosing it as a courtyard. The building’s narrow section allows for natural light and views into the courtyard to permeate more of the space, with wider sections placed in areas having greater program requirements.

3D Modeling: Revit

Circadian Lighting Analysis: Alfa Solemma

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic underlined the challenge of ensuring the safety of patients with suspected or confirmed severe infectious diseases and their families. This proposal suggests a layout for a single isolated room that is potentially communicable with the other family members and follows the standard guidelines to provide a safe, compassionate space. We tried to identify the measures that can support or disrupt this safety buffer zone and develop a design strategy framework through the design project. The proposal entails considerations for infection prevention, psychological support, and spatial qualities, including air circulation, daylight and circadian lighting.

Alfa output diagram showing quarantine pod melanopic lux LED 2500 k with 860-lumen output - average melanopic lux at night is 16, which meets WELL Building Standard requirement for bedrooms during the night.

3D Modeling: SketchUp

Sun Study and Render: Lumion

Ansel Adams’ gallery is defined as a small chapel for appreciating nature from his viewpoint. He spent his life showing people the beauty of nature and notifying them about its importance. He has framed nature in black and white pictures. His gallery can be a place in which people can gather and celebrate the beauty of nature. A sacred space for worshiping beauties of the terrain we are living on.

A secular sacred space is where that a person can profoundly encounter itself in the world. So, the question would be:

Can Light Contribute in Creating a Secular Sacred Space?