
The Journey Through Design
![]() NATURIST'S RETREAT MODEL 3 | ![]() NATURIST'S RETREAT | ![]() EVERGLADES RETREAT MODEL 2 | ![]() EVERGLADES SECTION ELEVATION | ![]() EVERGLADES RETREAT | ![]() EVERGLADES RETREAT FLOOR PLAN | ![]() EVERGLADES RETREAT DIAGRAM | ![]() EVERGLADES RETREAT DIAGRAM 2 | ![]() EVERGLADES MODEL |
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![]() EVERGLADES EAST ELEVATION | ![]() EVERGLADES SOUTH ELEVATION | ![]() EVERGLADES NORTH ELEVATION | ![]() EVERGLADES SECTION ELEVATION |
Shark Valley, FL.
Everglades Retreat
The Everglades Retreat is an oasis located in the midst of Shark Valley's plant life. It is built to withstand and stand above the sudden changing of water levels. A 3 Scientist lodging that affords the opportunity to live and study amongst the environmental elements of the Everglades. Everglades Retreat contains a main tower with Lobby, lab facilities, as well as kitchen hall, laundry and restrooms.
Architectural Design Studio V
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The Naturist’s Retreat which is located on the south west corner of the island, will cater to the needs of its occupants by allowing them to experience the site visually, physically, and spiritually. The Retreat is organized into specific sections that will give the occupants (artist, scientist, writers, etc.) the opportunity to interact not only with the structure in which they will be staying in, but also with the environment that surrounds them.
The Retreat can be found in the densely vegetated area of the island to give particular occupants access to the many different species of plant life that can be found there. The vegetation also helps to provide shade for the structure itself. Naturists can conduct water studies/analysis by way of a canal that is directly to the south and west of the structure. They can also experience a breathtaking scenic view of the islands as well as the everglades from different vantage points on the ascending ramp.
The building’s design is primarily constructed out of wood with secondary and tertiary materials like glass and concrete. The tower which faces to the north has three levels and allows viewing in any direction. The tower’s design is in a post and beam construction method with a combination of vertical and horizontal cladding that makes the skin of the building look like it is taking over itself. The idea for the façade was inspired by Marlon Blackwell’s ‘Tower House’, which allows the structure to breath.
The ramp takes visitors and occupants spiraling up a rectangular path as they ascend up the ramp around some vegetation, allowing the guests to slowly examine the trees as they approach the canopy. The Nature’s Retreat gives people the feeling of a cabin/wood shack in the middle of the wilderness filled with many things to explore.












