Premise

This project offers a place that can provide sanctuary for persons confronting AIDS. It responds to the needs of those in distress - those dying of AIDS, those living under the burden of HIV and those having lost someone to AIDS. But it also functions as a place of "potential," housing lectures, meetings, artistic and educational events (indeed, the public meeting relating to this competition might have been held there,) and can serve as the focus for public gathering leading to political action. In all these capacities, this place hopes to become more than its mere "objectness."

Sanctuary

The project attempts to fulfill such a programme in a number of ways. It provides a public place for private contemplation. The visitor is enveloped in an embrace and provided with a strong, protective environment, much like that of a cave. Natural, earthy materials surround him/her (concrete, a copper-clad roof, and cedar furnishings.)


Flame

At the apex of the space is a flame, providing a focus for reflection, as well as the sole symbolic element of the project. A flame, of course, can mean many things - our undying spirit, hope, warmth, inspiration, enlightenment... A simple wooden bench allows the visitor to remain for an extended period, if she/he desires.

Ritual

To one side of the space, a wooden table provides a place where the visitor can leave an offering (a photo, flowers or an object.) A blank book might be provided so the visitor can inscribe their thoughts for others to read.

Nature

The project encourages the proximity of nature in a number of ways. A garden intended to be developed and maintained by users will provide an outdoor extension to the sanctuary space. The roof is sloped so that rainwater is collected and spills into a collection pool below. When it rains, the sound and activity of the water will become a part of the sanctuary's experience. Natural light is brought into the darkness of the interior space through a skylight above the offering table, and passive ventilation brings in fresh air.

Site

The desired site for the project is at Thurlow and Comox, at the south-east corner of Nelson Park. Its proximity to many people, to St. Paul's Hospital and to the community means that it will be accessible, and it will benefit from the presence of the remainder of the park. In short, this project offers a place that might help AIDS sufferers to reflect, confront and overcome their pain.