River Edge Retreat

Abstract

Nature has the power to provide perspective, an atmosphere of reflection and contemplation, and also allows one to retreat to seclusion and recharge. A retreat on a river's edge provides access to these attributes of nature. An effort to blur the boundary of the outdoors was made to encourage immersion into it. The choice of natural and relatively local material provides a relationship between the built and the natural, allowing the inhabitant to experience the marriage of the two. The rhythm of heavy timber framework contrasts and compliments the delicate and translucent southern facade; the existence of the two perpetuates the perspective of balance and harmony. The intention of balance and harmony was not successful the first couple of tries. Trying to manipulate the structure against it's natural geometry and rhythm only produced problems. Once the structure was allowed influence the form instead of vice versa, better spatial opportunities became apparent.