Lithomimesis
Designing (with) Stones
This project speculates the extent of influence on fengshui in the built form and how we can extrapolate the natural stone as the mimetic expression of the mountain. Fengshui placement has other uses for rocks, such as creating stability in specific areas and are used to “weigh down” areas that are geographically high or out of balance. It can also create stability in an aspect of life.
Situated in Bugis, the area is rich is built forms influenced by fengshui. The site is situated at Parkview Square, in front of Duo Residences as well as the Gateway Tower. The design of Duo has strong Fengshui influences due to the site conditions and surrounding buildings.
Our Mountain rests on an axis facing Duo and Gateway, its trapezoidal front facing the openings, creating a visual directionality to the form. The long side edges present an opportunity to bring large visual cones for the offices and embassies above where there is a panaromic view of the area. To create a distinct separation and expression of the office and embassy, the lower large rock has thin walls and lined with multiple recessed openings to draw in light, while the embassy has a thick exterior with cone in opening, a more inward looking space
