Dreaming - Altan Tepe

The dream for the land of Altan Tepe in Portugal is to create a place of restoration immersed in nature, to feel the connection to the web of all things. This feeling is conjured so beautifully by this image from a version of the Tao Te Ching.

Ways of being

THE SEED

To create a place for the senses to rest. A place that allows the imagination and dreams to flourish. A space for nourishment and creativity.

THE NEST

To build spaces and experiences on the land for people to nourish, creating these spaces with ecologically sourced materials and sacred proportions.

THE PROCESS

We begin with observation. We look to nature on-site. We look to the movements of night and day throughout different seasons. We notice the earth and its elements, and take steps to call in those qualities we wish to shine a light on. 

Next, we move into preparation. During this stage, we consider the material presence, energy and sensorial quality of the space, in order to align with the true essence that will best serve it, and the beings who come to occupy it.

Finally, we turn our attention to resonance throughout the building process. The ceremonial blessing of the land from which a space comes forth. Its unique shape. The materials it is composed of. The way those materials come together. These different aspects all bring their unique resonance to a space. Working with attention throughout the process, we bring them together to create a harmony which will serve the building and all those who use it.