Landscape Observatory Pamukkale

Description

It is true that architecture is a means of intimate connection with a person, because through the different atmospheres designed, we produce a great synergy between the human being and the space that surrounds him. But we can not forget that this architecture is therefore related to its implantation, with its immediate landscape, with its exterior visuals, with the environment, ecology, etc. In short, with its immediate nature. Therefore, if we truly want to make good architecture we can not play two different melodies, but join our thinking to play a great and unique symphony.

The project is linked to nature and its research and observation. Although it is a place where any intervention of these characteristics can be of great impact, the way of locating and dialoguing with the environment will be evaluated

INTRODUCTION

Nature is powerful and some places are unique, unrepeatable, sometimes unreal and can be anywhere. The human being has as sole duty to take care of it with the utmost delicacy and respect, especially in this field: architecture.

Once again we wonder how we can intervene in a landscape as spectacular as this, where water, white color and texture make this “cotton castle” a unique enclave that almost looks like a movie from another planet.

Nature plays an important role in an architectural project, it is more than a base or a landscape to look at, it is the cornerstone on which we base all development, thought and materiality. Architecture is the way that humans have to transform a place, but this can not distract from the need to reflect what we must contribute to improve that space without provoking the opposite effect. Therefore, intervening in nature raises the need to propose solutions with the utmost delicacy and in harmony with their environment.

SITUATION COTTON PALACE

Deriving from springs in a cliff almost 200 m high overlooking the plain of Cürüksu in south-west Turkey, calcite-laden waters have created an unreal landscape, made up of mineral forests, petrified waterfalls and a series of terraced basins given the name of Pamukkale (Cotton Palace). Located in the province of Denizli, this extraordinary landscape was a focus of interest for visitors to the nearby Hellenistic spa town of Hierapolis, founded by the Attalid kings of Pergamom at the end of the 2nd century B.C., at the site of an ancient cult. Its hot springs were also used for scouring and drying wool.

The combination of striking natural formations and the development of a complex system of canals, bringing the thermal water to nearby villages and fields, is exceptional. The springs are the source of a hydraulic system extending 70 km northwest to Alasehir and westwards along the valley of the Menderes River. Pamukkale forms an important backdrop to the original Greco-Roman town of Hierapolis and the cultural landscape which dominates the area.

It is proposed to intervene in this singular space, being the choice of the participant to be located where they prefer within this natural setting. Although the area of intervention will be free, reTH!NKING haS proposed an area of general intervention that can be seen in the planimetry provided.

The enclave does not have physical barriers separating the area of action Of the rest, that is, it will be possible to define the limits of the intervention.

PROGRAM

The proposed program includes the following spaces:
• Access
• Observation platform
• Work space
• Meeting and / or conference room
• Mirador’s space
• Bathrooms

The project must be a unique place that produces its own identity in the area and turns the enclave into a landmark of environmental protection that proposes a need to take care of the existing environmental balance. The proposal must dialogue with the landscape and nature and that relates its visitors with this particular environment. This program is orientative and can be modified by the contestant. Project freedom is absolute and the area of intervention is free, this contest proposes that the participant investigate the forms of intervention in a singular landscape - Study limits, scales, views, access, materiality are the keys to follow