Hippo architecten

Schunck* 3D-puzzle

The pavilion is designed as a 3D puzzle consisting of two times two different volumes. Together they
form a square ground surface of 10x10 m. These volumes - one with a surface of 33m² and one with a surface of 17m² - can be used in a basic setting or can be put together in a wide range of combinations. Obviously, not all four volumes need be combined if a smaller pavilion is preferred. That way one can create many different spaces, bigger and smaller and many different atmospheres, indoor and outdoor relations, circulation patterns and so on. In our view it is important to have a flexible and adjustable building because the contents of the pavilion will change on a regular basis.

In each volume, openings and doorways can be created simply by leaving out some panels and structural frames. At any time, panels can be changed for others that are more transparent, have a different texture, drawing, pattern or color.

Both blocks are compiled out of an internal light metal structure and clad with a shell made out of portable polymethylmethacrylaat (PMMA) panels for the smaller volumes and polycarbonate (PC) for the bigger volumes. The possible transparency and lightness (about 3kg/m²) of these materials, together with the limited budget, made it an obvious choice, besides the fact of them being a totally harmless end product. Both type of panels have a thickness of 16mm and contain 3 layers (2 chambers).

The aluminum structure contains a stronger basic structure for the outer posts, and a maze of smaller and lighter bars on which the panels will be screwed. Waterproofing is reached because these smaller bars are provided with a layer of thick rubber.

To facilitate an easier put-together, a system of numbers and colors is introduced. De main structure is numbered and should be put in place as a start. The rubbers on the smaller structural elements are colored on the outside, to point out which surface they belong to. When the panels are mounted , these colors will no longer be visible. Each surface is obviously marked by a different color.

Some of the smaller panels are attached to each other with hinges to allow a faster assembling.

All this should allow a fast and simple building process of less than half a day.

Depending on the specific site where the pavilion will be built, the existing floor or groundcover can be used or p.v.c. floor tiles comparable to those used for outdoor sports fields can be easily applied because they don’t need preparation or a subsoil. Basically several undergrounds are possible such as grass, pavement, carpets, … This is decided by the user / organizer of the event.

The dimensions of each of the parts are limited to allow comfortable transport by a standard trailer
(dimensions 13.50 x 2.45 x 2.60 m) It is perfectly possible to change some of the cladding panels by solar panels for water heating and electricity. Simple gutters at the base of the pavilion could function well to collect water without disturbing the pure forms.