An event and retreat space here to bring magical realism to a nonfiction world.

The Land of Make+Believe

This Land of Make+Believe manifests as a spiritual epicenter within the larger landscape, a gateway to the Sierras, a space of regeneration. The comprehensive site plan begins with a discovery phase that analyzes the landscape at various scales, exploring the ecological and cultural layers of the land. Design principles revealed in the discovery phase are explored in concepts that would make deep time visible, establish a spiritual epicenter, and encourage regenerative practices.

The Proposed Site Plan evolves the concept studies and programmatic organization to develop a holistic approach to the site design. Pathway hierarchies give visitors a clear direction of how to navigate the site. Primary pathways intersect at the shrine, surrounded by a field of stones that speak to the concept of Deep Time. These pathways end at major programmatic areas, such as the Water Garden and the Elevated Platform, both on axis with the Shrine. Connecting all major programmatic spaces together, the outer pathway traverses changes in topography and curates a visit through all ecological microcosms.

Role: Project Lead

Location: Murphys, California

Client: Make+Believe Co.

Type: Ecological restoration, hospitality

Scale: 14 acres

Phase / Date: Comprehensive Plan 2022

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The Flats Community Land Trust

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Flatbush Pollinator Garden