Private Art Foundation

This Private Art Foundation was designed by Graft Architects together with Mingzhu Nerval. The project consists of a sloped, spherical structure which spans 360 degrees and nine meters height. It is a 300m2 living forest. The technical challenges were immense as the space is underground without access to natural light. The lighting design was conceived to give ample light for the growth of plants, while not blinding one’s eyes when walking through. The polar array of spotlights installed high above the path mixes and crosses light beams in a manner that recalls sunlight filtering through trees with an interspersing of shadow and rays that create a magical sense of a never-ending environment. Biophilic Design is a direct response to our desire to connect to the natural environment through the use of nature within built spaces. It can reduce stress, enhance creativity and clarity of thought, improve our well-being and expedite healing. Philip Rafael was the lead designer and managed this project as part of his work as Associate Director at Studio Illumine.