triangular 'archipelago pavilion' shaped for flexible use in argentina

the archipelago pavilion Integrated with Nature

Nestled within the forests of Córdoba, Argentina, this Archipelago Pavilion is designed by Alarciaferrer Arquitectos as a small architectural gem. The project was conceived with the purpose of creating an exhibition space for a series of unique residential projects nearby, while still maintaining its flexibility to accommodate future uses. Its strategic location acts as a crucial junction between the historic district of Estancia La Paz, which has been transformed into a hotel, a golf course clubhouse, and a scenic path surrounding a lake. Rather than having a singular main façade, the timber pavilion features three entrances or circulation paths, each with its own hierarchy, resulting in its distinctive triangular geometry.

images © Javier Agustín Rojas

opening and closing among the argentina woods

One of the most prominent features of the Archipelago Pavilion is its ability to transition seamlessly between being open and closed. To achieve this, the architects incorporated three sliding walls, each measuring nine meters in length. These walls can completely enclose the pavilion or open up to embrace the surrounding landscape, thereby reconfiguring the environment according to specific requirements.

At times, the pavilion appears as a closed box, while at others, it blends with the trees, inviting visitors to traverse its spaces. Additionally, discreet glass divisions can vanish entirely or enhance the immediate surroundings through reflection. This quality of being an object within the landscape serves as a reference point and organizational element, drawing inspiration from Richard Serra’s sculptures, particularly ‘Sight Point’ and ‘Spin Out, for Robert Smithson,’ in the Netherlands.

the efficient structure by alarciaferrer arquitectos

With the Archipelago Pavilion’s construction, the Argentina-based studio employs dry construction techniques, utilizing black-painted metal tubes, which expedited the process. The predominant use of charred wood for the enclosures imbues the pavilion with a distinct color, texture, and expressive quality that harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding tipa forest. The interior flooring consists of stone, while the finely designed wooden furnishings and fixtures stand out amongst the other elements within the pavilion. This aesthetic arrangement is only fully appreciated when the pavilion is open and in use.