The Architectural Apprenticeship: FIRMNESS, COMMODITY AND DELIGHT

FIRMNESS - A HOUSE AS AN ENVIRONMENTAL FILTER
The prominent aspects of logical design within my cabin include:
- An emphasis on open plan living, all major living spaces utilised repeartedly during the day can be completely opened to the central pavillion.
- A natural and unimpedded transition to the surroundings, instinctively the space spills down the last few levels out into the open
- Subtle proportions of the site are translated through the design
- The tiered roofline a nod to mountain peaks along the horizon, rising and falling in sync, tying the view to the building
- Heavy set walls on the West and East facades protect the building from harsh summer sun and act as a thermal mass, containing heat in winter and keeping the internal temperature down in summer
- A North East orientation, maximises the exposure to winter sun allows for the greatest penetration of morning light
- Openable and fixed glazing can be angled to catch the dominant winds and direct air flow through the building
- A ribbon of glazing runs around the roof line of the two building allowing in additional light.

Exploring the general passive design considerations and contextual influences on the site and design.

SITE CONSIDERATIONS AND DESIGN RESPONSE

COMMODITY - A HOUSE AS AN CONTAINER OF HUMAN ACTIVITY
The main aspects of spatial design within my cabin include:
- A strong emshasis on movement and transition
- A central living space, that is essentially the core to all movement within the cabin, it is the link between all the seperate spaces, re-affirming that connection with the open surrounds each time the occupant passes through
- An obvious disassociation between the work and bedroom spaces, the transition is evident, 'going to work' and 'leaving work'
- A bedroom retreat, physically removing oneself from the lateral flow
- Multi-functional 'pockets', adaptable areas that are changeable, the main dining table can serve as a semi-formal meeting table with the addition of more chairs, the lounge and table in the studio can be used for informal meeting or reflection.

Exploring spatial relationships and transition

SPACE ORGANISATION AND CONNECTIONS

DELIGHT - A HOUSE AS A DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCE
The main aspects of formal design within my cabin include:
- A strong and lingering entry, the entrance is situated on the East side and offers no insight into the living conditions of the cabin.
- Quick air flow through the passage and a step up onto the pavillion re-affirm the notion of a journey into the space and these 'unpleasent' conditions mean that the central living space seems calm and enclosing, almost more at peace. Its a juxtaposition, one which intensifies the experience entering this open area
- Obvious intention to bring the outside in, a completely open and well ventilated cabin means that the scents and sounds from the landscape easily permeate the internal spaces
- Simple, local materials, raw and unfinished, concrete blocks and timber decking.