Isolated Architecture: Finding Solidarity In Isolation

Abstract

Throughout history, humans have stigmatized solitude. We see it as an inconvenience, something to avoid, a punishment. As a society today, we are constantly locked on to our phones, televisions, friend groups and generally being around people. It is an over stimulation that has damaging effects to our mental well-being. We need to be around people because we are a social species. Because of this we think the idea of being alone as a problem, as something strange, an unwanted behavior. I believe there is a misunderstanding between the idea of isolation with separation and loneliness.

The world's population is increasing every year and we often find ourselves trapped in overcrowded cities. Finding a special quiet place to get away and gather your thoughts is difficult in an environment like this. This is a major stress factor that contributes to the large spread of depression and anxiety that we find in our world. These cities come with many stressors such as density, excessive stimuli, competition and materialism, disconnection and even uncertainty in a constantly moving and changing environment.

This thesis is the exploration of intentional solitude which is the idea of wanting to be alone. Being alone has many benefits that go beyond what most people think. Scientists and psychologists today are finding that isolation can be very beneficial to the human mind and can be therapeutic if done so by choice. Intentional solitude can also be beneficial for groups as well. This works when individual group members set off and isolate for a certain period and then regroup later to share their own experience. By doing this, the group gains new experiences and ideas that would otherwise be unachievable if done so alone.

To best achieve solidarity, the design of the wellness retreat will include a main communal building, called the hearth, and a set of smaller individual structures, called shelters. These shelters will be located at different points throughout the site and provide an isolated, natural experience for self-reflection. The hearth will be the area for communal gatherings and to share ideas and experiences found through isolation.