Memory of Space
Myer’s Forest Research Center
A student research center located deep in Connecticut’s north-east forest offers a chance for architecture to react sensitivley to its delicate site. Although surrounded by dense forest, it’s image as an untouched, natural landscape is only an illusion. In reality, much of the present trees and vegetation exist as a result of years of conservation efforts after lumber harvesting on the site had ended. This contradictory condition of unatural-nature was a compelling principle to echo in the architecture. Through juxtaposition of materials, reversal of spatial nodes, and attention to experience and natural awareness, the project engages with the memory of its site and explores how architecture can sustain certain aspects of memory through preservation while enhancing other aspects through invention.