Urban Public Mini Structure
Welcome Center Concept
Site
The pavilion #1 is situated at a crucial point of the JinHua Architecture Park.
Not only is it the first pavilion of the collective 17. It is also overlooks at a
significant bend of the river bank. It therefore marks the turning point in
the overall direction and perception while entering or leaving the park.
This privileged position is stressed by the unspecified use associated with the mini structure.
Principles
So the pavilion #1 is conceived as an opening gesture of the entire park. So
the principle function should be a look out and point of vista in order to perceive
the surroundings, its dimension and as many pavilions within it as possible.
Above that it may be understood as an entrance marker in order to ensure orientation.
It may work as a meeting point for guided tours or special groups.
Exterior use
Obviously the opportunity to get a panoramic view is promise enough to climb
to the roof terrace. The specific lay out of the flight of stairs is not only designed
to be tempting gesture to reach the roof but also as a form to supplement for furniture.
A school class could use the stairs for a group picture or visitors could sit on them while
studying maps or event lists of the park.
Typology
Pavilion #1 creates a curiosity challenge. The facade reveals enough of the inside
to raise a question, but not enough to give definite answers. It is more a translucent
sculpture than self explaining building. The maximum challenge will be addressed
through visitors walking on the roof of the pavilion. This privilege of view will be a
magnet of attention.
Exposure
The monolithic facade with its shimmering interior should be on an open plane, where
visitors could encircle it. Like the Kaaba in Mecca it should be an object which rests in
itself but enough energy to encircle it in different distances. Therefore a relocation onto
the plaza would consequently provide the proper setting for this "gem. With this specific
translocation also the two adjacent plazas will be differentiated.
Team: Simone Meier / Sergio Suarez / Till Schweizer