After
the excess of formal exercises in architecture, a simple box with a mechanical
twist offers the most iconic formal solution and the most versatile spatial
proposition - putting art and performances back to where they belong - into the
center of attention!
The
Gallery Space
Connected
to the river bank by a simple jetty, the 14m square and 4m high box acts like
an inverted medieval draw bridge: its top flips-up via a 4m hydraulic arm. When
it’s open, it goes higher than the 4m restricted height, generating a spacious
and dramatic event hall. The straightforward but sublime act of opening like a
clam-shell reveals a white washed interior. In good weather, this opening
remains free, allowing an exchange of sights and sounds between the city and
the pavilion. In case of bad weather, transparent vinyl curtains protect
against rain and wind. The pavilion’s open plan and integral floor grid allows
for the versatile arrangement of gallery walls: its adaptability is also ideal
for performances.
The
Performance Space
The
ceiling is a low-res LED surface that acts as a flexible installation: pure
white light for an exhibition, a real-time feed of the weather outside, as well
as text and color animations that are part of the exhibition concept. This
provides endless imaging possibilities.
For the Turku 2011 opening ceremony and other larger live concerts, the
box can be opened up to 11 meters, turning itself into a great, vibrant
floating stage that sends music up and down the river banks.
The
pavilion’s structure is based on traditional wooden ship construction, and the
mechanical hinges and the hydraulic arm come from heavy duty container ships.
When
the top lowers, and the pavilion’s height returns to 4m, it becomes a boat,
moving freely under bridges on its way to new locations.