Concept: Openness and Closure

 

   Understanding the Brazilian culture thoroughly is a crucial part in our design, we wanted to bring their uses of materials, colours and most importantly the playful spirit that their culture has.

 

   Creating a Hostel for Brazilian visitors and families in Canada that is affordable to accommodate short and long term stays, and at the same time is sensitive to the needs of individuals of that culture through the way it connects them with individuals similar to them, and by keeping them connected to their culture. It also welcomes individuals who would like to experience a Brazilian culture, allowing them to understand the basis of their traditions.

 

   Inspired by the amazon forest, the carnivals, the tree-houses and Brazilian interior design in general, the concept “Openness and Closure” has emerged. The design of the spaces will reflect Brazilian values abstractly, using materials and elements that nature provides. Also symbolic elements such as air, light, the sky, trees, and earth are visible through every space, whether it is literally visible or metaphoric, bringing a sense of peace and calmness to the colorful and playful design and Brazilian furnishings.

 

   The re-occurring colours within the spaces are yellows, blues and greens with touches of earthy tones and textures. Wood is a dominant material in the Hostel, as it provides a connection with the outdoors. Spaces are collapsible, and if not fully, they all have some sort of visual and physical connection with nature. This collapsibility, closure and openness is a representation of the playful spirit of Brazil, reminding one of all the beauty that does exist even through rough political times.