smoke ‘n mirrors
a sanctuary of science — Nevada, USA
with Pieter Tilman, Ginger Hanssens, and Froukje Visser
Young Architect Competitions / Hyperloop Desert Campus
In the Nevada desert, a mirage rises from the dust. When approaching the building, the visitor notices different volumes parallel to the road. The facade blends together with the spectacular environment, while the building reflects within itself. This effect changes constantly depending on the weather, time of day, and movements – alienation embedded in the mirage. In between volumes, oases are created to offer a green and shaded space for relaxation. Mirroring windows on the north facades create a rare sight through reflection, provoking a sense of curiosity. Through a gradient of light, with lighter spaces on higher and darker on lower levels, users feel a sense of place.
The project creates an unique, high tech and comfortable place to enjoy the Hyperloop development. Through three main pillars – the mirage, the oasis, and the reflection – the project enables users to live, work and visit the Hyperloop Desert Campus in a state of the art building.
basement lab
entry level
first floor