Abstract:
With undisturbed natural land becoming more and more scarce, it is increasingly important to design structures so that they work with the environment to ensure that the beauty of Nature may still be enjoyed by all. Designing in harmony with the environment leaves the land relatively untouched, uses renewable energy systems, and offers a visual connection to the land.To test this theory, a retreat resort in central Alaska has been designed. The intention for this resort is to show that a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural environment can be achieved. What differs with this resort from many other examples thathave tested this theory in the past is that the resort in Alaska is intended to have a contemporary feel with modern comforts instead of just being another log cabin in the woods. The purpose of this thesis is to show that it is quite possible for contemporary structures to work just as well with the environment as those that are rustic.The resort is intended to serve as a weekend retreat for couples, or as a temporary home for environmentalists and artists (painters, musicians, authors, etc.). The remoteness from society and the beautiful natural setting of the resort justifies its use for these purposes. The resort willserve approximately 40 to 52 people at a time and will include a Main Structure that will be open year-round and Satellite Structures that offer a minimum of technological equipment that will be open on a flexible peruse schedule. The structures on the site use wind and water power for electricity, operable windows as the only cooling equipment, collected snow and window coverings to help with insulation, and composting toilets for human waste to name only a few of the ways in which the design works with its site. The Satellite Structures collect rain and snow for water and all the structures respond to the large amounts of snowfall that the region receives. The client for this project could be a wealthy individual with a love for Nature who sees a long-term project over the high initial investment. The client could also be a public entity, such as Denali National Park, located just south of the project site, which could offer the resort as an extension of the park’s services.
