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Through a dense forest, an art gallery embedded within a hill slowly reveals itself through the trees. The building, bermed into the rolling undulations of the existing forest topography, almost appears like a landform from certain angles. The gallery and its landscape physically embrace an existing pond, restoring this wetland area for natural habitats. This is the Reflecting Gallery, a private collection of paintings and sculptures where nature and art complement each other.
A series of conditioned and open-air galleries, a bar, and coat check/restrooms span the upper level, while the lower level offers additional gallery spaces, a film theater, restrooms, and a meditation lounge. A sculpture terrace with a reflecting pool and cafe encourages outdoor lounging; the pool creates an immersive experience for viewing reflections of the sky and the woodlands beyond. Open views of nature create a stunning scene.
The upper-level galleries capture light across an arcing facade of glass. The exterior structural walls consist of rammed concrete laid in organic striations of color derived from local sand and stone sediment, literally fusing the regional landscape with the architecture. The thick masonry walls provide a structurally insulated zone that balances thermal comfort and humidity control through the inherent properties of the wall construction, reducing the dependency on both heating and air conditioning throughout the year. Berming the building into the ground takes advantage of the earth’s consistent temperature and helps to modulate the ambient temperature of the lower level. Cedar roof shingles, end-grain oak flooring, and stone terrace pavers will patina gracefully, highlighting the beauty of the passage of time.
The Reflecting Gallery integrates a number of sustainable design strategies, including geothermal heating and cooling, radiant floors, natural ventilation, motorized solar shades, and rainwater collection for irrigation. A tight palette of native vegetation highlights vistas and other natural features on the property while also managing stormwater run-off. Local stone slabs and shale excavated from the site create outdoor seating areas and pathways to outdoor sculptures and site-specific installations.
CONSULTANTS
VISUALIZATION Darcstudio