A Biodynamic Tapestry

Inspired by local tradition, community, ecological and economic resilience, Semana’s Spiral unfurls to blend sustainable agricultural practices with passive design. The ancient cosmic Taíno worldview on which the design is based, grounds the project to the cultural heritage of the Samaná Peninsula. Cutting-edge cultivation practices and permaculture principles further project the off-grid farm as a precedent of environmental stewardship spurring future regional development. The project masterplan respects the existing contours of the land, utilizing the sloped topography for crop irrigation and to direct water into storage pools that double as recreation space. At the project’s nucleus stands the owner’s sanctuary—a biophilic home rooted among ancient ceiba trees, offering a bird’s-eye view of the undulating mountains and waters below. Integrated farming makes use of the surrounding fields and forests for cultivation. Crops are grown on both small and large scales in an interconnected and holistic fashion to support property residents as well as the wider region through a community organized cooperative. Circulation paths allow for community participation on site establishing Samana’s Spiral as a cornerstone of the region. Architectural interventions are comprised of energy efficient design decisions based on passive design principles. Construction methods and techniques are innovative in design and purpose, but utilize naturally occurring and locally sourced materials and systems ensuring local labor forces can take part in construction. Self-sufficiency and self-reliance are supported by on-site farming, rainwater reclamation, district geothermal cooling, and photovoltaic energy generation. By innovating new solutions with existing technology and practices of the region, lessons learned from Samana’s Spiral can be applied to future off-grid development in the Dominican Republic. Samaná’s Spiral is not just a farm, rather it lives as a regenerative organism, pulsing with life and innovation. It honors the Taíno spirit of harmony with nature while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in off-grid, sustainable living. This dynamic, ever-evolving tapestry of life, technology, and culture stands as a beacon of hope—a testament to humanity’s potential to not just coexist with nature, but to become a nurturing force within it.