Day 4147: Bhutan and Throwback Thursday.

 

"Options": junk collage, digital.

  

  

Want music?

 

    Click here: Glass Animals, Gooey

 

 

2GN2S

 

BIG's mindfulness city in Bhutan envisions the world's first carbon-negative community

Gelephu mindfulness city by BIG 

 Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), in collaboration with Arup and Cistri, has designed the Mindfulness City in the town of Gelephu, aligning with His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck’s vision for a new economic hub in Bhutan, the world’s first carbon-negative country. Spanning over 1000 km2, the masterplan integrates Bhutanese culture, the Gross National Happiness index (GNH) principles, and the country’s spiritual heritage. Situated in Southern Bhutan, near the India-Bhutan border, Gelephu Special Administration Region is envisioned to leverage its location to foster economic growth and provide opportunities for the local population. The plan includes initiatives in green technology, education, and infrastructure, such as an international airport, railway connections, a hydroelectric dam, and public spaces. It also embraces local building typologies based on the nine domains of GNH, reflecting aspects like well-being, health, education, and cultural diversity.

Gelephu’s innovative urban planning for future generation

Surrounded by mountains, forests, and rivers, Bhutan is home to rich biodiversity, with 70% of its land covered in forest. The Mindfulness City aims to enhance this natural wealth by creating an interconnected network of ecosystems and vibrant neighborhoods. Inspired by the flow of 35 rivers and streams across the site, the city’s design features ribbonlike neighborhoods resembling paddy fields, forming terraces cascading from hills to valleys.

The city’s density gradually increases from rural highlands to urban lowlands, fostering a seamless transition between different living environments.

the project suggests a series of inhabitable bridges

cultural hubs and civic spaces in the heart of Gelephu

Project Information and more photos, here.

Throwback Thursday ...

After a demo, Sensei Demura and his demo team, 1990.

Who do you know?

 

  

 

A 2 minute music video, Simply Beautiful, here.

 

 

  

Just because ...

  

Blue Jay

 

 

Thursday's Smiles ...