Tectonic sanctuary

tectonic SanctUary

Type: Cultural and Hospitality

Year: 2025

Location: Big Island, Hawaii

Team: Igor Neminov, Victoria Litvin.



This concept centers on embracing the raw energy and dynamic beauty of volcanic landscapes to create a sanctuary for rejuvenation, reflection, and a profound connection with the natural world. Just as lava shapes and reshapes the earth, this retreat invites guests to reshape their own perspectives and discover inner peace. The architecture mimics the fluid geometry of cooled lava flows, eschewing harsh angles in favor of gentle, organic curves. Rooflines undulate like rolling ridges, and pathways meander naturally through the terrain, ensuring the complex is nestled carefully within the existing topography to minimize environmental disruption.

Locally sourced lava rock and concrete serve as the primary building materials, grounding the structures and forging a direct link to the environment through dark, textured surfaces that provide a sense of primal strength and permanence. Strategic openings and faceted facades create a dramatic interplay of light and shadow, reminiscent of the way sunlight interacts with rugged lava fields to evoke a sense of depth and dynamism. To balance these rugged elements, smooth pools and water features are woven throughout the site, symbolizing the calm that can emerge from intense energy while the sound of flowing water fosters a pervasive atmosphere of tranquility.



The guest journey is a spatial sequence designed to guide the individual toward renewal. The arrival experience is intentionally grounded and earthy, providing a visceral sense of "rooting" into the land. As guests move through the sanctuary, the architecture gradually opens, transitioning into expansive spaces and secluded alcoves that offer broader perspectives and a feeling of release. Ultimately, the Tectonic Sanctuary is more than a destination; it is an immersion into the powerful, creative forces of nature, fostering a profound inner transformation through connection to the primal energy of the Hawaiian landscape.


Process


The project's conception begin with a sketch and was intended to be a fusion of various sets and fields that would produce a unique interplay amongst each other. As a result, the drawing began to take on an assemblage like presence. It became to form a variety of relationships, shapes began to interlock, blend, bisect, shift, overlap, hollow out, emerge, etc. This creative interplay of shapes became the ruling process for the project. Given its' location, it felt appropriate that the process itself would resemble all the various states and forces during lava flow and its layered formations. From it's malleable stage to the curing one, the shift between fluidity to solidity. The changing of properties as it is forced to encounter other elements as flows down the volcano and into the ocean.

Identity


Capturing the environmental, vernacular and cultural heritage was integral to the shaping of the project's material and geometric qualities. The integration and application of things like tribal tattoos or totem carvings unto the surfaces and spaces took on a different kind of dimension. Things like stairs, corner details, window cut outs, zig zagging or terracing volumes would transcend those forms of art into a spatial one.

ascending entry


The subterranean corridor under the Lilly pond creates a processional entry for visitors. As visitors ascend to the entry plaza, an imposing totem like head breaking through the surface creates a junction point. A moment where one is reminded of the cultural significance and ideas about the spiritual realm.

Programs & Experience


The retreat is full of programs and spaces designed to promote healing and clarity. The spaces are orchestrated in a way allowing the visitor to meander through many corridors and spaces that interlock, bifurcate and flow into one another. The maze like composition creates unique opportunities for visitors to find something different and immerse themselves in experiences they may find surprising, maybe even enlightening. There are three pools, a spa, dining area, library, gallery space, viewing tower (totem), gardens and an open foyer/courtyard and many other that are there to be discovered.

Morning traquility


The retreat, with its dark, textured volcanic rock exterior, is nestled right on the coast, offering breathtaking ocean views. A sleek, inviting pool stretches out towards the horizon, promising relaxation and rejuvenation. The large windows and open design emphasis on connecting with nature and allow visitors to enjoy expansive views. The overall atmosphere is one of sophisticated tranquility and harmonious integration with the natural environment.

Hakalau Meditation


Hakalau meditation, a traditional Hawaiian gazing practice, involves focusing on a spot and allowing your vision to broaden, then focusing on your peripheral vision. This helps to quiet the mind and induce a state of bliss. This space is designed to help promote and enhance the experience. The carefully positioned ribbed water channels were designed to expand one's peripheral vision.


Steps to achieve mindfulness.


Initial Focus:

  • Choose a spot, preferably slightly above eye level.
  • Focus your attention on that spot, trying to let go of thoughts. 

2. Expanding Awareness:

  • As you focus, notice your vision starting to spread out.
  • Allow your visual field to expand more and more. 

3. Peripheral Focus:

  • Shift your attention to the peripheral parts of your vision without moving your eyes.
  • Gradually, you'll lose focus on the fixed spot and take in as much of your visual field as possible. 

4. Staying Present:

  • Remain in this state for as long as you can.
  • Notice the feelings of calm and how thoughts recede into the background.