Paislee and I quite often chat about builds when we meet up, and today was no exception. She was working on a structure in Ruminations, one that (as it turned out) had been inspired partly by
Ilan's vision for the welcome centre. It comprises a set of circular areas linked by curving pathways through the landscape.
The build is work-in-progress, and is part of Ruminations. As we walked around it, Paislee explained some of her thinking. Given the structure's inspiration, it might be a useful discussion starter for thinking about aspects of the welcome center.
The start point is at
Ruminations (87, 306, 22).
With Paislee's permission, here is an edited version of the chatlog.
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Dot: I rather like this arrangement.
Paislee: I'm happy with it...this spot. finally... or I should say, this structure. some texturing etc to fix still, but I think it works.
Dot: simple. Not too open, but with an obvious flow
Paislee: but you see how something on this order could be developed into the sort of thing that Ilan mentioned. and this sort of thing could fit into hilly terrain as well.
Dot: I really think we should use terraforming to create more interest etc.
Paislee: yes, especially since "flat" is the norm for most welcoming places.
Dot: Lost Paradise is nicely done -- that is Old Europe village on different levels.
Paislee: the purpose of the incline [the ramps leading from the main circle] is to encourage the visitors to step out to the top so they can get a quick overview of what is around them. and to put "stuff" on... to direct them
Paislee: these circular pads could serve as bridging pieces or gathering places. pathways are simple enough to do. buildings could be tucked in along the way...
Paislee: One of the things i think needs reminding people of is the click to instantly tp to a spot in the region. I use that a lot! to move around quickly. too much walking! or flying! people get tired
Paislee: if visitors are in a rush there could be a central tp device to instantly take them to their needed destination. but otherwise I think it is good for people to just wander and explore. if there are interesting "mini-builds" to admire along the way they would be pleased to wander. little freebie items (such as completed backpacks, shoes, etc.) visitors could get would encouraged to wander more.
Paislee: The last thing I want to see when I arrive someplace is a massive open build that I have to get through to see/get items of value to me. I'd like to explore small spots and pick up items as I go. I do think sorting an avie is the first thing though.
Dot: That is an important point. need to have different paths [for different kinds of visitors]. the different paths need to be obvious too.
Paislee: yes, that's why there are 4 ramps to lead the visitor.
Dot: so would you have a sign/symbol on the ramps? suggesting what is found by going over them?
Paislee: yes. text or whatever also could be placed on the white surfaces to guide people. if so desired.
Paislee: All these jumbled thoughts are buried in the build as I was working.
Dot: Any more thoughts? (sorry about this -- they are giving a useful perspective.)
Paislee: avie sorting, shopping area (with Kitely info too), points of interest, and coffee shop hangout area... with spots here and there between the areas to rest and enjoy. It needn't be huge and glitzy.
Dot: it could be "people sized'
Paislee: yes
Dot: Yes -- that is partly what I am trying to get across. Because they are big, they tend to emphasise emptiness. It is almost as though they are built for people who never came.
Paislee: A virtual ghost town.
Dot: I guess what might be happening is that we are used to "slow burn" wow factors where we learn to see details and appreciate them and over time it builds up. Again, it is a building of meaning.
Paislee: yes
Dot: But if you are wanting a place where lingering is encouraged, then you need to allow for that, or enable it. [as well as an immediate "wow factor" at the entry point, say]
Paislee: and the use of the circular pads keeps it small. but little shops could be grouped around them if wanted or landscaping and benches.. whatever is needed.
Dot: Yes
Paislee: and then any style changes won't smack you in the face. but could happen as you move from one pod to the next.
Dot: Would you have time to add a couple of examples to show how that might work?
Paislee: at some point today...
Dot: That would be great -- when you have time.
Paislee: okay will work on it.