HCCH Studio’s Twisted Brick Shell Library emerges as a captivating fusion of architectural innovation and rural serenity, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Longyou County, China. Serving as both a functional haven and a visual ode to its agrarian surroundings, the pavilion stands as a testament to the studio’s vision of harmonizing contemporary design with traditional elements. Crafted from earthy bricks and punctuated by a twisting section of wall, the structure exudes an enigmatic charm, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its embrace. Founder Hao Chen’s conceptualization of the library as a “spiritual shelter” underscores its role as more than just a physical space but as a sanctuary for contemplation and connection. 

Seamlessly blending into the rural tapestry yet hinting at the encroaching urbanization, the pavilion’s semi-fabricated construction mirrors the nuanced duality of its locale. As visitors traverse the brick path towards its entrance or recline on the interior bench, they are enveloped by a sense of tranquility, accentuated by the poetry inscribed within its acrylic domes and the curated vistas framed by concrete-framed openings. In this convergence of form and function, Twisted Brick Shell Library transcends its utilitarian purpose to become a symbol of cultural dialogue and architectural ingenuity.

Krishna Cow Sanctuary in Hawai’i offers a unique and heartwarming experience for animal lovers seeking cuddles with cows. The sanctuary, situated on the Island of Hawai’i, is home to various bovines, including bulls, steers, calves, and retired mother cows. For a fee of $20, visitors can enjoy “cow cuddle therapy” by getting up close and personal with these surprisingly affectionate animals. The sanctuary emphasizes that all proceeds from these interactions directly contribute to the care of the cows. Through networking with local landowners and promoting the benefits of grazing cows, the sanctuary has created an extended herd that grazes on over 130 acres of lush, year-round grass pasture. This innovative approach allows the sanctuary to rescue new cows regularly while maintaining relatively low operational costs.

The videos shared by guests showcase the extraordinary nature of Krishna Cow Sanctuary, going beyond the typical petting zoo experience. Cows at the sanctuary actively engage in full-on embraces, peacefully dozing off in the laps of visitors, and expressing a hint of sadness when parting ways. The cows seem to enjoy scratches and, like beloved house pets, thrive when serving as pillows and offering comforting hugs with their long necks. To further support the sanctuary, the owners sell dairy products, emphasizing their commitment to the health and comfort of the cows. The sanctuary’s ‘Ahimsa’ dairy products are produced without cruelty, with lactating mothers milked only by hand, alongside their nursing calves. The sanctuary maintains a strict policy of never selling or killing any members of their herd, actively rescuing new cows to ensure their well-being.