Abstract

The way we dwell within the natural environment is not sustainable, in fact our very conception of nature is flawed from our first idea of it. What is necessary then is the reconceptualization of our understanding of our being. Working from Martin Heidegger’s ontological viewpoint this thesis will develop an understanding of how we as humans develop relationships with the physical environment in which we are immersed. From this understanding a series of interventions will be designed using a design process derived from Martin Heidegger’s philosophy centralized around the experience of the hike. This hike will expand and explore Heidegger’s methods and will become a first attempt towards establishing an architectural process that can will develop healthier and more sustainable relationship with the natural environment. It will also create one that is more fulfilling to the experience we seek to gain from the natural environment.