Credits: http://www.kevinvanbraak.com

Of course, nature arranged on many levels provides an extension to existing nature as well as a symbol of its artificiality.

Should we expand nature vertically to increase the density of our environment? Will we build not only “vertical cities” but also “vertical landscapes”? Is this project called “campingflat” by artist and designer Kevin van Braak a possibility to provide multi-level extra space for visibility and accessibility?

No, in this case there is definitely not a pragmatic or functional approach. Kevin van Braaks project description:

In the work CampingFlat the starting point is to broaden the experience of the space, space not necessarily being physical but also mental. Campgrounds, in a four story high scaffolding building, wrapped in a green fabric, seems to offer a complete package to the spoiled camper or tourists. Everything is present: tents, campfire and animals. But everything is also fake:
the grass is artificial, the campfire is made of plastic, the animals are stuffed and the bird sounds are projected from speakers. Danger is reduced to the minimum and in this way also the adventure of the camper. I wanted to put the attention on the absurd effect on a society where everything is focused on more, faster and compressed. Where for an instant the “over” regulated recreation falls into an obvious illusion. The question is if this fiction can really satisfy us or merely gives us a short superficial satisfaction. The challenge for the visitors was to be seduced by the illusion I created or that what we call reality? Namely, the environment in which the CampingFlat was placed. The border between both stays unclear.

campingflat,
scaffolding, artificial grass, stuffed animals, polyester campfires, tents, sound installation, 6 x 7.6 x 10 meters, 2003

Quellen/Copyright:
with permission of Kevin van Braak – http://www.kevinvanbraak.com
photos: Cor de Kock

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Credit: http://yurta.ca/

Yurts have housed people in Central and East Asia for centuries. The portability and easy assembly of their homes was, and continues to be, crucial for these nomadic communities.

The Yurta can serve as a long or short term dwelling (like a cottage or a festival booth) and vary according to its purpose (it can be installed on a platform or directly on the ground). The Yurta is an ideal shelter for backcountry expeditions, base camps, and leisure housing inspired by nature (to name a few).

There are many options in material choices and finishes. The main structure, visible on the inside, is made of wood; showcasing the natural feel and aesthetic qualities of the Yurta (such as the frame) The outer covers are sewn with great care and precision and can be made of various materials, like marine canvas or polyesters.

It can be used as a temporary booth at an outdoor event, or a long term dwelling away from city lights.

The Yurta can be assembled by two people in about 45 minutes.

The circular space is simply beautiful; combining the finest elements of traditional and modern designs. The structure of the wall, or lattice, is minimized to not only make transport and setup easier, but to add a lighter look and feel to the space. With less structure in the way, windows are accessible and airy…making the indoors of the Yurta feel like an extension of its natural surroundings. The canvas shell allows for a gentle glow with little to obstruct the sounds of its outdoor environment.

And tilt your eye to the sky! The large sky window in the centre of the space allows for the tracking of the passing sun and clouds throughout the day…and quite possibly, the Milky Way.

Yurta specifications (17.72 base model):
17′ (5.2m) in diameter
226’sq (21m2) in area
10′(3m) height at centre
270lbs (112kg) packed weight
8′x3′x2′ (2.4m x 0.9m x 0.6m) packed dimension

Quelle / Copyright:  yurta.ca-Website, with permission of Marcin Padlewski
http://bakerygroup.com/

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