Bibliosmia
Bibliosmia is a reading retreat inspired by the unique smell of old books. The name comes from the feeling of comfort, nostalgia, and curiosity that emerges when opening a well-loved book. The project’s motto is: “Reading a book is a withdrawal from the outside world, layer by layer.” This idea became the main concept behind the spatial design. The project is located on a steep site and is designed as an escapecore experience, offering visitors a gradual transition away from the noise and distractions of daily life. Two main entrances gently guide users into the space, creating a slow and calming journey. The design is organized into three layers, each representing a different stage of withdrawal from the outside world.The outer layer consists of open and semi-open spaces, including walking paths and entrance areas that maintain a strong connection with nature. The middle layer contains movable furniture and a long bookshelf that functions both as seating and storage, encouraging interaction with books and flexible use of space. At the center lies the inner layer, a quiet and enclosed reading area designed for concentration and isolation. As visitors move inward, the spaces become smaller and more intimate, reinforcing the feeling of escape and immersion in reading.A visitor arrives from the busy surroundings and enters one of the pathways leading into Bibliosmia. The sounds of the outside world gradually fade as nature becomes more present. Walking through the layers, the visitor slows down, selects a book from the shelf, and settles into the central reading space. Surrounded by silence and the scent of books, they disconnect from everyday life and become fully absorbed in reading, relaxation, and reflection.
Constellation Settlement:
Sky Gazers Oba
Designed as individual escape points, the Constellation Settlement transforms five tiny houses into a collective research environment known as the Sky Gazers Oba. Born from the synergy of four space researchers and one information provider, the site layout mirrors a star constellation. At its core lies a shared hub inspired by the fluid, organic forms of cosmic dust clouds. This center unites the site by bringing the lower and upper axes together exactly in the middle. Structurally, the project balances isolation and community. The hub divides into a public zone—featuring an exhibition space for annual findings and an interactive VR room—and a private zone equipped with a meeting room, kitchen, and inclusive restrooms. The architectural heart is the Take Away Cafe. Sheltered by an elegant upper canopy system, this semi-open social square acts as the settlement’s main breathing point.
A Day in the Oba
Waking up in my tiny house, the quiet isolation offers a perfect start to the day. Stepping outside, I follow the constellation pathway toward the center. The imposing yet airy canopy of the Take Away Cafe welcomes me. I grab a freshly brewed coffee, taking a moment in the semi-open square to chat with our information provider about last night’s sky observations. The atmosphere is vibrant yet deeply focused. Later, I head into the private meeting room to analyze our data. Just a few steps away, in the public zone, visitors are already exploring our recent discoveries in the exhibition area and immersing themselves in the VR room. Here, under the fluid roof of the cosmic dust cloud, everyday living and architectural circulation seamlessly blend into one.
