Breakwater Hotel:
Fall 2017 | Semester V | University of Wisconsin
Hospitality Studio with Roberto Rengel
Water has always been a symbol of cleansing. Whether it be from the purity preached about in many religions, or the health benefits of water ions spoken about in science. A proximity to the ocean and a relationship with the water can bring peace in times when nothing else can.
Breakwater Hotel is located on the coast of Maine just north of the urban density of Portland. Serving as a retreat for those struggling with disorders ranging from addiction to health problems, homelessness and many more, the space opens itself to the land, complimenting and provoking it without interrupting. This ebb and flow tension with the landscape inspired the design thread for the building that alludes to the idea of water crashing on rocks. The fabric found throughout, paired with the solid stone and concrete gives itself to this idea, while allowing light and ventilation to flow through. By promoting verticality throughout the building, a sense of falling water is encouraged, as well as lightening the space and creating an airy atmosphere to recenter and detoxify one’s mind.
