This design stems from the idea of building forms that are easy to erect, dismantle and relocate within a natural setting, such as an encampment in a forest. Our installation uses conventional building methods and standard lumber to reimagine a modern sense of gathering and community. In the very centre of the pavilion, a seating area around a symbolic fire pit references both the survival and social aspects of an encampment. Visitors are invited to spend time in the interior of the installation with opportunities to sit, relax and socialize in the central space.
The IDS x Ontario Wood Pavilion was the winning entry for an architectural installation to celebrate the importance of wood in Ontario’s identity and history. Our pavilion explores the qualities of temporary shelter, acts as a showpiece of the possibilities of locally-sourced lumber, and creates an interactive, built environment that features products created by local woodworkers and craftspeople.
The structure comprises a basic building block – the iconic profile of two angled, intersecting 2×6 wooden beams. This profile is arrayed around a 32-foot circle. With an 8-foot opening at the base, a pair of 2x6s taper at the top, connecting at gradually changing heights around the circle while maintaining the same angle throughout. An elliptical curve flows through a perfect circle, creating two elongated conical forms and an inner gathering space.
The central space can be viewed through the elongated form and along the perimeter. The top corners shift along the curve and gradually reach the ground. The half-moon shape shifts along the arrayed wooden members as the top corner tapers down. Not unlike a campfire or encampment in a forest clearing, the central space acts as the heart of the installation, creating a sense of protection.
There are four access points from outside of the installation. Three allow the visitor to enter the inner circle, while a fourth opening gives access to the interior only, but not to the central space. There are several ways to interact with this installation, and the structure evolves and transforms as the visitor discovers their own path.
This installation was displayed at IDS19 for a period of four days and viewed by over 53,000 attendees, after which all of the material was donated to Habitat for Humanity.