star court

time : 2011

place : catalina island, ca

process : time; infinity; the ever expanding universe

completed for : university of southern california design research; wrigley institute of environmental studies

collaborators : Regula and Doug Campbell of Campbell & Campbell

The Star Court is designed to seamlessly integrate within the natural landscape of Catalina Island. Sited at the base of a ridge and 10’ below natural grade the Star Court protects the night sky from the impeding light pollution of Los Angeles. The geometry of the Star Court is based on a series of 3, 60’ diameter circles. The form is founded upon the dimensions of time, paying homage to the ancient past time of peering into the universe- losing oneself in the infinitely expanding starscape.

The sloping walls transition into seating elements sculpted to accommodate a perfect repose for gazing into the night sky. During day light hours, sono tubes punctured through the ceiling of the subterranean tunnel project an image of the milky way so visitors may chart the stars on the tunnel floor. The tunnel leads to an east facing deck overlooking the pacific ocean, honoring the rise of our own star.