Casa Wabi Pavilion

Community Center | Oaxaca, Mexico | Unbuilt

Our proposal is informed by two material worlds which are inspired by the resilient and diaphanous nature of orchids: 1) a carved, rooted space made of clay bricks from the surrounding earth, and 2) a lightweight canopy allowing for air flow and modulation of light. The entry is marked by a ramp at the intersection of the Clay Pavilion and the High Temperature Kiln tower. (Fig 6) The ramp leads down into a main gathering space defined by brick retaining walls, which are intended to be developed and made on site. The gridded canopy roof provides a literal and figural frame from the orchids to hang, a plant-shading mesh diffuses light to create conditions most suitable for orchid growth. 

Project Team: Daisy Ames, Jennifer Dempsey, Elizabeth Parker, Alek Tomich.