Muqiao Lei
We capture the sublime in architecture by harnessing Edmund Burke's notion of astonishment, presenting unexpected transitions from a distillery to a bath amid daunting landscapes. This design blurs the line between the natural and artificial, using the distillery's precise process against the expansive natural backdrop to highlight human fragility. Integrating sauna and bath facilities catalyzes a sensory and spiritual juxtaposition.
Inspired by Fred's sculptures, our design introduces a 'necklace' concept. Avoiding parallel or intersecting paths, we instead employ interlocking geometric shapes, referred to as 'necklace shapes,' connected by linear elements called the 'necklace chain.' This is visually represented in both the tapestry and floor plan, emphasizing distinct but interconnected visitor circulations—distillery, viewing, and bathing areas—each enhancing the other without interference.
The entrance features a towering chimney that echoes the surrounding mountains, drawing the eye upward and inviting contemplation of nature and the divine. Inside, visitors are greeted by the 'bath view,' where steam meets mountain mist, creating an enveloping mysterious atmosphere. The interior contrasts bright spaces with the somber Skye landscape, using light to elucidate Burke’s concept of sublime obscurity. This project invites visitors to experience astonishment and reflect deeply as they traverse our architectural journey.
Inspired by Fred's sculptures, our design introduces a 'necklace' concept. Avoiding parallel or intersecting paths, we instead employ interlocking geometric shapes, referred to as 'necklace shapes,' connected by linear elements called the 'necklace chain.' This is visually represented in both the tapestry and floor plan, emphasizing distinct but interconnected visitor circulations—distillery, viewing, and bathing areas—each enhancing the other without interference.
The entrance features a towering chimney that echoes the surrounding mountains, drawing the eye upward and inviting contemplation of nature and the divine. Inside, visitors are greeted by the 'bath view,' where steam meets mountain mist, creating an enveloping mysterious atmosphere. The interior contrasts bright spaces with the somber Skye landscape, using light to elucidate Burke’s concept of sublime obscurity. This project invites visitors to experience astonishment and reflect deeply as they traverse our architectural journey.
