THE PROMPT: To present a point of view of the concept of "shelter" through the exploration of volume-spaces, continued refinement of the volume enclosure, and coordinating volumetric studies, aperture families, landscape and techniques of fabrication into a cohesive project. 

THE PROJECT:

Light is a vital part of any shelter, with the ability to designate spaces without many other influences. While examining the site near Finerty Pond along the Appalachian Trial, there were primarily three types of light created by the flora there, mainly trees. Where trees were denser, there would be direct or muted light. With trees far apart, there would be direct light, creating a more open atmosphere. In the center were trees that just barely touched, creating dappled lighting. Bringing that lighting effect into the volume, four apertures representing the three "pure" forms of light were created. 

Considering material, rammed earth not only reflects the environment, but also creates a dichotomy. Light in forests is filtered through leaves, which are often considered "soft". But in this case, light is filtered through rammed earth, which is "hard" and rock-like. Thus, the lighting effect is recreated through a material that contrasts what is expected and typical.