Periodicity Pavilion

Urbana, Illinois

An academic couple, a renown materials scientist and a respected artist, wanted an outdoor space for entertainment and contemplation in their elegantly designed garden. We determined during the initial meeting that the design goal was “…to give them a reason to use the garden.” After several iterations, we developed the new space as an extension of the existing deck, creating a framed, optimal view of the garden and landscape that was previously de-emphasized. The pavilion can serve both as a stand-alone insect-protected space for a small group, or a covered deck expansion for larger gatherings.

The repetition of patterns is a theme throughout the space. The corrugated white metal exterior is conceived as a textural complement to the pale horizontal face brick of the adjacent ranch house. The decking planks become the floor of the pavilion. Wall and ceiling panels align with lights and fixtures. Temporal patterns result from rainwater channelled across the correlated roof surface, as well as scalloped shadows cast onto the deck and wall surfaces. The “light chimney” to the North reflects the house fireplace chimney to the South, and draws south light into the pavilion serving area. All of the pavilion's openings are carefully arranged to frame the existing plant compositions.

Since completion, the clients have entertained extensively in the pavilion. It has also become a favorite place for morning coffee, writing, and contemplation, thus fulfilling the initial goal of the project.