raw adventure
CARICOM RESORT – Georgtown, Guyana
The juxtaposition of expansive landscapes, forested jungle surroundings and vibrant colors of the lake creates a unique sense of drama where rare experiences can unfold.
Storytelling has transcended beyond libraries and movie theatres into the fabric of our everyday lives. Shapes, images, and technologies previously only imagined are now seen in expressions of art, architecture, and even automobiles. In doing so, engaging and provoking design is redefining the meaning and connection among and between people and place.
As society seeks more enriching experiences, the task has fallen to designers to concept these immersive environments and bring them into being. “Every project must connect with its users in some way,” says Andrew Schmidt, EDSA Senior Associate. This type of design narrative evolves from an exploration of the client’s mission, the site’s context, and often its unique place in history. “That’s the heart of it,” exclaims Schmidt. “Design that fits within a place and out of respect for it – becomes transformative.” Editing a project vision into a simple theme and then expanding it into a complete story creates a fulfilling experience with materiality, structure, and detailing becoming the vehicles that impart the message. Case in point, the country of Guyana – where the EDSA team recently conducted a design workshop. Since gaining its independence in 1966, the country’s chief economic assets have been its natural resources and bauxite reserves. Despite these riches, Guyana remains one of the poorest countries in South America. “Once a productive mine, our client’s site offers an opportunity to preserve history and ecology by designing a series of educational, cultural, and eco-tourism experiences,” states Schmidt.
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With limited infrastructure and land forms dictating its best uses and program compatibility, an existing lake will serve as a centerpiece for entertainment encircled by theme parks, water parks, and retail amenities. In contrast to this reclaimed parcel, lower level, undisturbed lands will house low-key hospitality and residential offerings while large berms provide the foundation for hiking paths, extreme sports, and equestrian trails. “With proper care of the existing topology, the story of the Caricom Resort can become an icon within the community while driving tourism and economic growth to the region.” Beyond visual aesthetics, immersive design incorporates sound, movement, and even fragrance. Relatable to all senses, it is intended to evoke emotion where textures, colors, and arrangements cross-thresholds. “Like a piece of music, design is intended to move us and make us feel a particular way,” shares Astrid Hoffmann, a Vice President at EDSA. “Whether a design stands in the background or asserts itself in a bold way, it is the story within from which memories are made. In messaging however, the narrative of a place must not be too theoretical. It must acknowledge the roots of a place, be of quality, and require the observer to take moments to discover.”
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