'Sensory deprivation chamber' builds upon the idea of de-stressing beyond the individualized experience of sensory deprivation pods. The idea is to repurpose an abandoned train station on 91st Street and Broadway into a sound isolated landscaping chamber, which is inspired by the gentle curves of soft blankets. Only sound is isolated, a continuous glass window exists on the border of the platform level to observe the passing trains. While people are at the landscaping, they can still feel the subway lights and vibrations.
This proposal is a moderate solution to sensory deprivation, in contrast to the total isolation of the pods in Chapter 1. The previous pods act as an idealization of freeing oneself from sensory overload, while this proposal aims at a more practical approach.
91st abandoned subway station conditions & proposed revitalization
Various use cases shown throughout the different sectional cuts
Visitors enter through the side stairs and then are given an option to store their belongings at self-storage lockers, all managed by an online management system. Visitors may also reserve their spot in advance since the area is maintained at a certain occupancy level.
The platform is surfaced with Isoprene rubber for a soothing, soft feel, standing above an undulating CNC wood framing. (detail 1)
Sound proofing is achieved by insulating the ceilings with double layer of insulation with an air gap, as well as double pane glass windows and doors. (detail 2)
Lockers
Detail 1
Detail 2
Sensory alleviation chamber section
An abstract mock-up of the design was first made before starting the 3D modeling process. The study model was made using cloth that is formed appropriately, allowing the creation of crevices that inspire different usages along the chamber.
Cloth model and subdivision modelling
A major part of the form-finding process is using the appropriate tools that support subdivision surface modeling such as 3DS Max, in contrast to traditional CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or Rhinoceros. When the form is finalized, the 3D representation of the design is used to further study possible structural strategies
Structural anatomy of the chamber
Sectional physical model