Project Description
INSCAPE // A NEW CONCEPT FOR MEDITATION
INSCAPE, a new meditation concept, opened in Manhattan December 2016. Archi-Tectonics created this new meditation concept and design for Inscape not only as a one-off, but also for worldwide distribution. The first PROTOspace in Chelsea occupies a large 6000sf ground floor on West 21st street. The space contains a set of very large volumes; ellipsoid meditation spaces; a “Dome Room” and an “Alcove room”, an extensive retail space, as well as a spacious living room for guests. An important element of healthy living is found in lifestyle changes, better eating habits and ‘cleaner’ live – work environments. When we developed the Inscape meditation concept, we considered all the above. Prefab offsite construction, natural recycled and renewable materials, such as bamboo, linen and cardboard that breathe and absorb humidity, are also implemented and complement each other
Meditation requires a different state of mind – We introduced a gradual transition from the hustling and bustling NY streets all the way to the calm Dome meditation space. The Dome which looks like a simple natural space devoid of all technology, is actually a highly engineered space with an immersive light- and sound environment. The space is complemented by 2 LED rings that adjusts light intensity and color depending on the meditation, and a grid of tiny invisible speakers designed to create a perfectly even sound space. Specially designed seating pads by Ligne Roset support the guests in all poses, helping them to balance and focus. This holistic enclosure helps to transform one’s mood and state of being.
Upon entering the Dome, a bamboo entry “portal” envelopes the guests, creating a gradual transition into the controlled environment of light/ sound / air. Here one can leave the world outside, and focus on oneself, expanding mind and brain. The rings of LED light envelop the space, after one settles on the specifically designed meditation pads, the meditation starts, and the upper led ring dims to leave only the lower led ring [horizon] on as a focus point. The open oculus above symbolizes eternal space, and an opening of the mind. The lower ring reminds one of the horizon [think of the ocean, the desert] that induces a calm reflective state of mind.
MATERIALS & PREFAB CONSTRUCTION
The bamboo Dome was developed through a thorough process of 3D digital design and engineering. Instrumental was the 1:1 prototype that an LA car-design company put together with a robotic cnc. It assisted us in developing the prefab logic for the Dome, configured from a bamboo base with seating, and an elipsoid bamboo spiraling ceiling frame, covered by a white sail fabric sewn by a NY sail maker. Extensive testing of materials for Dome construction, seating pad comfort and seating spacing in the meditation room, helped create an easy installation and ultimately effortless atmosphere. Special aroma therapy is integrated in the air filtration system, that cleans the air and enhances a feeling of comfort. Soft gongs sound through the space and allow one’s thoughts to wander. A moment of respite in a busy city is created.