Mosaic Art Cabin (2022)
Photos by Henry McCoy
(This is part of a series on the 11 projects designed and built by classes in the Louisiana Tech School of Design at MedCamps of Louisiana.)
MedCamps Executive Director Caleb Seney: The Mosaic Art Cabin is a camp favorite. A large air conditioned space where campers can create art and messes are encouraged. This project is utilized daily by almost every camper. Under the guidance of our art director, campers are encouraged to be creative and color outside the lines. The kids love it and a little secret is the STAFF does too! Prior to its renovation, The Mosaic Art Cabin had served for years as Parnell Cottage (Cabin 1). Over the years it was converted into a laundry facility and ultimately ended up as storage space and unused by the campers. Prior to its new home, our arts program was in a screened-in pavilion with no power or water. It was not pleasant on hot summer days. Mosaic is a creative piece of art in itself that inspires creativity and art to come from our campers. At night the facility is lighted up in an array of colors and gives a dark corner of camp a playful splash of light.
Tech Professor Brad Deal: This was our most complete project, with full mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems in a renovated block building topped with a 2,400 square foot roof. It was nearly more than we could handle, but the students pushed through every challenge to complete it. Three years later, a large tree collapsed the roof’s peak. It was heartbreaking, but several students from the 2024 Studio volunteered their first week of summer to restore it. That kind of lasting commitment says a lot about the impact of these projects.
Program Summary: Adaptive reuse of an existing structure at a summer camp for children with special needs into an arts and crafts “maker” space.
Program Statement: The design task was to create immersive experiences, foster creative expression and amplify the joy of making within the timeless traditions of summer camp. Drawing inspiration from the camp’s 25 year master plan, the project transformed an abandoned cabin, purposefully reintegrating its presence within existing camp roads and walkways. The nature of the users and creative program led the team to an accessible, inclusive, and direct “mosaic” concept. Directly associated with the creative work, mosaics begin with humble and sometimes unrelated pieces that, when assembled, celebrate their diversity and collaboration. Individuality becomes an asset, reminding us that the whole is indeed greater than the sum of its parts. The floor plan, furniture, and storage solutions prioritize flexibility and utility, while a continuous mosaic spectrum of color links the string of interior and exterior spaces. A breezeway and detached bathroom provide privacy, while substantial fenestration allows for beautiful north light, clear circulation and functional program. The custom trusses and playful columns are fabricated from reclaimed steel from the oil and gas industry. Nearly 1,000 sf of reclaimed lumber, including formwork used in the project, create a complimentary mosaic of natural texture and color on the ceiling and in the restroom. At night the color spectrum radiates into camp, reminding campers of their time there, and creating a unique beacon in the wooded landscape, adding to the magic and memory of this special place and community.
Project Team:
Professors: Robert Brooks, Brad Deal
Students: Seth Bartholomew, Devin Boyd, Alex Bradke, Emily Brinkerhoff, Cole Chivers, Riley Felicetty, Stacey Garner, Christ Jacob Goure, Foster Gunter, Haley Hamel, Bailey Hayes, Gavin Jones, Gracie Kimbrell, Cody Marino, Jordan Merritt, Josh Mwatibo, Jack North, Ty O’Neal, Whitley Procell, Morgan Provost, Preston Remy, Olivia Roger, Brandon Shows, Laila Stewart, Katelyn Watts, Will Whatley, Katie Young
Recognition: 2022 AIA Louisiana Merit & Member’s Choice Awards
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MedCamps programs are completely free of charge to all campers with special needs. If you would like to support future projects at MedCamps, events, sponsor a campers attendance financially or volunteer please visit www.medcamps.org or email info@medcamps.org for more information.
