Pavilion in a garden

This project transforms an unused 5x15 m extension to a single family residential plot into a densely planted garden and personal library.

Designed as a private and secluded retreat from daily life, the pavilion was conceptualized as an inhabitable piece of furniture bridging a lush and naturalistic landscape.

Accessed by a separate entrance from the street, the existing ground plane was excavated to create a sunken path lined in local black granite. The shift in levels combined with dense planting provides acoustic separation and visual privacy from the neighboring city. Although physically separated from the client’s residence by a masonry wall, strategically placed openings allow for glimpse to the garden beyond. The structure, clad in thin strips of locally reclaimed wood, acts as a portal framing two contrasting scenarios, a dense “wild” garden and a grass amphitheater/ seating area.  On special occasions, the seating can be cleared to create a small covered stage for family performances.  Small niches line the walkway and are illuminated by diyas (small lamps) in the evening.

Pavilion in a Garden, Sadashivnagar, Bangalore, India
Program: private library
Architects: Collective Project
Project Team: Cyrus Patell, Eliza Higgins
Area: 70 sqm

Completion: 2014