Amoeba

"Early naturalists referred to Amoeba as the Proteus animalcule after the Greek god Proteus, who could change his shape."

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Working individually, we were given a site - an old wave energy project in Sotra, Norway, which has since been destroyed and abandoned. The location is rugged, yet peaceful, dramatic and powerful, yet serene. With the word 'peace' in mind, we were to experiment with creating space in such a landscape. The further two themes I chose to work with were power and light. ​I wanted to create a new approach to experiencing outside life. On visiting the site, I knew that I didn't want to add to it or take anything away. I want to simply create a heartbeat within it – a space that can change its shape, by mimicking it’s surroundings.

 

A space that is: A sanctuary of peace and tranquillity. A place to think and experience the changes in nature surrounding you – colours, textures, day/night, weather, moods, drama. Important themes: In harmony with nature, invisibility, dematerialisation and power provided by off-grid energy (solar and wind).

The idea of open space should be truly extended. To camouflage itself, the space should have an organic shape. Man should feel comfortable and safe within, enveloped by nature itself. The space should play on further senses – visual versus physical boundaries.

 

INTERNAL: A space that is intimate, yet permeable to the outside. It is a place of well being, providing a high standard of basic accommodation for two people for an overnight stay. Main areas: relax/ sleeping, storage and private ablutions. 

EXTERNAL: The external skin consists of two layers of acrylic with gas insulation. A mirror coated finish on the outside bounces off most infrared rays – protecting the inside from overheating, while it is completely transparent from the inside. The materials and shape harbour light, reflect and transmit it, shining like a diamond in the rough.