Biophilic Materials Research and Garden Center
Expanding my knowledge of natural material systems and incorporating biophilic considerations, this Candoro Marble is a historic gem tucked in South Knoxville's formally thriving Vestal neighborhood has the potential to reengage with the community and promote environmentally-conscious material systems.
A romantic driveway, historic stone ruins, and decades-old trees were immediately recognized as existing elements that should be not only maintained, but highlighted.
Wooden doors open towards a meditative private garden, connecting to the adjacent collaborative workspace. Movable seating elements and a central water element, providing a flex but private environment for small group conversations.
Conceptual influence of Adolf Loos' Raumplan impacted the overall circulation and attitude about public and private views. Sight lines between performer and audience, teacher and student, crafted the approach to volume and programmatic layout.
This site is a hidden gem of Knoxville, and a notable landmark for the Vestal neighborhood and those who travel through it regularly.
Its corner location makes it feel as if it is on a pedestal, yet still has tucked-away moments that feel confining and unsafe. The new gardens take advantage of the elevated areas, layering foreground and public space to highlight/hint at the knowledge tucked deeper within. Those previously confined/unsafe spacing become opportunities for intimacy and reflection.
