Student Spotlight: Daria Tsurkan

The Project

The Sanctuary of Time focuses on addressing the challenges of rapid digitalisation and fostering an awareness of the ever-accelerating flow of time. It offers a respite and transformative experience of a slower, simpler life, standing as a slow space in a fast-pacing world, designed to reconnect individuals with the essence of time and the natural world.

Through immersive rituals centred around the four fundamental elements: air, fire, earth and water, visitors embark on a journey to rediscover the significance of time in their existence.

With a careful combination of light, tectonics and volumes, the public complex invites exploration and reflection, guiding participants through elemental rituals that culminate in the creation of a unique timepiece. Meanwhile, the private monastery of time provides a deeper immersion, where guests commit to a 14-day journey of self-discovery and mindfulness through rituals dedicated to the elements and slower pace of life. Through these experiences, the sanctuary of time aims to cultivate a profound connection between body, mind, and soul, fostering a greater awareness and appreciation of both oneself and the passage of time.

The project extends beyond personal retreats, aspiring to establish a collaborative space for local clock-makers in Nottingham. This facility encourages knowledge exchange and contributes to the revival of the analogue clockmaking community.

Through a condensed journey, the clock-making process becomes a profound meditation on time, craftsmanship, and the beauty of being present in every passing moment. While contemplating how the craftsperson’s rhythmic motions mirror the passage of time, individuals would naturally reflect on how the experience influences their perception of time and deepens appreciation for the present. Moreover, the experience will carry forward the realization that every tick of the clock is a gift, using this awareness to appreciate each moment.

The inspiration behind the project 

The main inspiration for the project was taken from the holistic idea of interconnectedness of all and everyone, expressed in eastern Asian religions and physics of new age.

In terms of architecture, the design embraced Tadao Ando's masterful use of light, which became a pivotal element in creating atmosphere and spatial experience. Additionally, the phenomenological atmospheres of Peter Zumthor's works, particularly exemplified in projects like The Therme Vals, informed the project's approach to creating immersive environments that engage the senses.

The project was also influenced by Juhani Pallasmaa's exploration of human perception, particularly his notion of humans as creatures of shadows and the heightened sensory experiences that occur in darkness. This concept was woven into the design to create spaces that evoke introspection and sensory richness.

Furthermore, the project embraced elements of Japanese architecture, particularly the idea of the revelation of time and being within architectural spaces. Traditional and contemporary Japanese materiality played a significant role, emphasizing craftsmanship and a deep connection to nature.

Being part of NTU

Being part of NTU was an enriching experience where Daria gained a lot of new skills and including new hand-drawing techniques, digital and physical model-making, graphic and web design, woodworking and more. The architecture course was engaging and informative, having a nice balance between self-directed learning and tutoring, which in turn always inspired her for new ideas.

Throughout Daria's time in the course, there were numerous study and recreational trips organised, including visits to YSP, Oxford, Bristol, and Venice along with Verona. These trips not only enhanced her academic experience but also were great getting closer with her friends on the course.

The course made her realize that architecture truly is a mix of anything you can imagine related to art, design, technology, human relationships, even psychology and philosophy. Daria is grateful for the opportunity NTU provided me over the three years to explore these diverse aspects of the profession and express herself through her work.

The knowledge she gained on the course helped her and a group of her course mates to get the first place in a Student Charette in London in 2022 competing against architecture students from across the UK.

Closing remarks

Studying architecture is no walk in the park, but if you tackle it with true passion and care, you'll find joy in every step without struggles. Though it is a long way to go, the opportunities that arise make every ounce of effort worthwhile.

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