The Nest-Oaois

Our project proposal offers us the experience of creating therapeutic spaces that, following the principles of biophilia, reintegrate with nature through the five senses, supporting the process of healing, repair, renewal and reintegration for the user.

How did the concepts of biophilia and wellness create the concept of the project?

The salvation and peace of humanity is possible only by returning to nature. In order to define a person as healthy, he must be in balance in these three concepts: physically, spiritually and mentally.

Exposure to nature not only makes us feel better emotionally, it also contributes to our physical health. We designed our project with an understanding that we can perceive nature with our five sense and establishes the connection between the five sense and human.

The concept of our project is that it is a center that comes from nature rather than a wellness center in which nature is later included.

The project itself is a part of nature and we build the program on this foundation after taking the healing power of nature as a basis. With an attitude aiming to protect the elements that need protection with the existing natural opportunities of Australia, the main concept has been determined as the wellness of both the users and the natural elements that are in danger of extinction.

How was biofilia used in the architecture of the project?

14 principles of Biophilic design, which are the expectation of the competition, were used in many points in the design. We have achieved integration with nature through architecture that is lost in nature and the green texture that surrounds the land and flows into the interior.

Architecturally, the buildings were used in a way that integrates with nature and allows the natural texture to continue. The masses integrated with the land are covered with a green facade, a green roof and allow the continuation of nature.

The accommodation units are made of natural materials such as wood, stone and glass that complements them. In order to ensure the principle of biomorphic forms & patterns, These structures, inspired by bird nests, form human nests in the area defined as an oasis. 

Since the existing green texture was not sufficient for the wellness center idea that emerged in the lap of nature, existing green texture was converted from single trees to dense forest groups. In addition, natural elements have been diversified with elements such as lakes, waterfall, streams which serves different activities. Thus, healing with nature is strengthened.

How was the project programme shaped?

In order for the healing journey to be uninterrupted and away from the noise of the outside world, all recovery programs were collected by deepening the existing pit status of the land.

The circle pattern creates the courtyard, the pattern multiplies and creates spaces, diversifies the landscape and circulation. Different units around the lake, which we can call the center of the project area, offer us various opportunities to achieve wellness. In the open areas, healthy drinks are consumed in the cafe, dance lessons are given on the stage and meditation is done. This healing process is continued with meditation and spa facilities in our closed units.

The urban farm area located above the restaurant structure allows guests to have therapy while growing their own vegetables.

The bedrooms of the accommodation units overlook the flower gardens that are private to each unit, with the glass ceiling it is possible to watch the stars at night. These residences, inspired by the bird's nest, come together in privacy and each group creates a courtyard. In these special courtyards, these small communities communicate with each other. Bird watching is possible in one courtyard, there is a lake in another, and the other unites around a fire pit.

How were the main decisions on programme placements made?

Welcoming buildings are placed in the easiest way for guests to reach from the Western Boulevard. Healing spaces are gathered in the courtyard away from the outside sight and sound, and the accommodation areas are designed close to the suburbs. Thus, it is aimed to establish a relationship with the context of the place.

Different healing spaces were gathered in the courtyard, which was obtained by deepening the existing land topography, and it was intended to be out of sight and sound of the surrounding area. The connection between the lower and upper levels is provided by the ramp, and at the same time, water and scenic views are obtained with the ramp.

How were the materials chosen?

The materials have been selected by paying attention to be biophilic, respectful to nature and local. Each material belongs to nature, in the color that the human eye is accustomed to. Thus, a repetitive harmony with nature emerges in wellness center.

How will the project transform with the passing time?

The project is planned to contribute to Australian natural life in the long term.In addition to being a wellness centre, the project also aims to be a conservation area within the natural and wild elements of  Australia that are in danger of extinction. Being a new home for nature, endemic plants, animals especially birds is defined as the last part of the transformation of the project.