Set on the shore of the Thames, this project explores the tidal movement in Rainham Marshes as a core design element, through the creation of an architecture that is open, reactive and responsive to its surroundings. The boundary between the building and its environment becomes ambiguous as the tidal water is being ‘invited’ into the building in a choreographed way.

The project proposes a therapy centre that takes advantage of the healing and calming properties of natural environments and water in various forms, exploring elements such as sound, light, temperature, and movement.

During the different tidal stages, the architecture undergoes a dramatic change as the water floods or reveals the building and its surrounding landscape. Over time, the building becomes a recording instrument of the water levels. As the metal facades start to corrode, the exterior landscape begins to be inhabited by sea life.