Ian Bryane
Buttermilk Falls: The Breakdown


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Amidst the forest, stone layers rise from the ground, giving the illusion of permanence. The main exhibition hall sits low, inviting natural light, creating a cave-like atmosphere. Visitors enjoy croissants while overlooking the eroding landscape held together by planted grasslands and rejuvenated forests. Geologists conduct experiments on collected rocks as the path descends, leading to educational spaces explaining erosion management. The tower marks the cliff’s former position and serves as a geological timeline, symbolizing time’s passage. The design concept revolves around embracing change over time and aligning with the site’s temporal theme. It acknowledges that the site will experience disturbances and plans to let it recover naturally through ecological succession. Simple meadow plants and native grasses are initially planted, gradually evolving into a mature oak forest. This approach avoids intense initial planting, promoting a healthy ecosystem. The tower on the site initially measures erosion and sedimentation but later transitions into a sanctuary for local flora and fauna, reflecting adaptability over time. The overall vision is to plan for the future, making architecture an integral part of the landscape and adaptable to unknown future needs.







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