Open Tree House is a modular pop-up installation located in Joshua Tree, California — a setting chosen for its natural isolation and contrast to the fast pace of urban life. Designed as a sanctuary for rest and reflection, the space invites individuals to disconnect from daily routines and reconnect with themselves through a minimal, flexible, and immersive spatial experience.

oBJECTIVE

The goal of Open Tree House was to explore the fundamentals of architectural design and spatial experience as first-year students entering the creative field. This project served as a foundation for understanding how an abstract idea can evolve into a built reality.

Driven by my interest in human behavior, I proposed grounding the project in intentional well-being. This direction allowed us to explore how design can shape emotional experience, offering a unique opportunity to experiment with form, function, and atmosphere through a wellness-centered lens.

PROCESS

The design process emphasized the translation of ideas across multiple levels of fidelity. We began with conceptual digital sketches and low-fidelity physical models to explore spatial relationships and structural possibilities. Hand-drawn perspective views were used to investigate form, scale, and user interaction.

We then developed detailed 3D models using SketchUp, refining design decisions through iterative modeling. Final environments were rendered using Twinmotion to visualize atmosphere, materiality, lighting, and context — capturing the immersive quality of the modular structure in its natural surroundings.

spatial design

Open Tree House was guided by the intention to create a restorative, human-centered environment. Inspired by natural landscapes, we incorporated organic forms known to evoke calm, comfort, and familiarity—shapes that resonate with the body and mind on a subconscious level.

Biophilic principles were central to the design. Plants were integrated throughout the modular space, not only to visually connect with the outdoor surroundings but to support mental health, as research shows their presence can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and elevate mood.

Material selection was equally intentional. We used linen, a natural fabric, for its tactile warmth and calming properties. Wood was chosen as the primary construction material for its accessibility, wellness benefits, and ability to support a human-scale structure that we could realistically build ourselves. The overall spatial experience was designed to feel open, grounded, and adaptable—encouraging moments of pause, presence, and reconnection.