observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame

the pavilion’s design emphasizes the interplay between structure, light, and materiality.

S-AR edited by christina vergopoulou February 12, 2025 4 min

S-AR + CEDIM collaborate on Observatory Pavilion in Nuevo León

The Observatory Pavilion was developed as an architectural and construction exercise aimed at exploring construction logic and execution principles. Designed by S-AR for a site adjacent to CEDIM in Nuevo León, Mexico, the project was structured as a hands-on learning experience integrating material studies, prototyping, and full-scale construction.

In the initial phase of the workshop, students conducted a two-week study focusing on material properties and volumetric composition through scaled models and physical construction details. These studies were used to refine design strategies and test structural viability, culminating in 1:1 scale construction details. The second phase involved a five-week on-site construction process, where students worked alongside the construction team to assemble the pavilion. The structure, functioning as an observatory tower, is constructed using a concrete and steel frame, and wooden panels.

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 1 — all images by Paco Álvarez – Recording Architecture

the tower incorporates four metal columns and wooden panels

The pavilion consists of a tower built using a modular frame-and-board system inspired by traditional framing techniques. The structure incorporates four metal columns combined with wooden lattice elements, internally lined with plywood panels. The modular system facilitates efficient assembly while minimizing construction complexity. The tower is divided into two distinct spaces by a wooden mezzanine. The lower level functions as a transitional space, enclosed and shadowed, while the upper level serves as an open-air patio designed to frame the sky and natural surroundings. This elevated space captures shifting light and movement, creating a dynamic relationship with the environment.

Through its material composition and spatial configuration, the pavilion emphasizes the interaction between structure, light, and texture. The project by the collaborative team between architectural studio S-AR and design school CEDIM fosters a layered experience, where contrasts between enclosed and open spaces define the architectural approach.

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 2 — the Observatory Pavilion serves as an architectural exploration of construction logic and execution

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 3 — designed by S-AR, the pavilion is located adjacent to CEDIM as part of a hands-on learning project

observatory-pavillion-s-ar-cedim-mexico-designboom-1800-3 — the project integrates material studies, prototyping, and full-scale construction techniques

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 4 — the pavilion is structured as an observatory tower, featuring a concrete and steel frame with wooden panels

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 5 — the pavilion’s design emphasizes the interplay between structure, light, and materiality

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 6 — four metal columns support wooden lattice elements and internally lined plywood panels

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 7 — the upper level functions as an open-air patio, framing the sky and surrounding landscape

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 8 — the atrium captures shifting light and movement throughout the day

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 9 — a wooden mezzanine divides the tower into two distinct spatial zones

observatory pavilion by S-AR + cedim in mexico employs plywood panels and metal frame - 10 — the lower level forms a shadowed, enclosed transition space

observatory-pavillion-s-ar-cedim-mexico-designboom-1800-2 — the pavilion encourages spatial exploration through varying light and shadow conditions

project info:

name: Observatory Pavilion

architects: S-AR | @stacionarq + CEDIM – Centro de Estudios Superiores de Diseño de Monterrey | @cedim_arq location: Santa Catarina, Nuevo León, México

area: 8.75 sqm

materials: Concrete, Steel, Wood

coordinators: César Guerrero (S-AR), Djordje Stanojevic (CEDIM)

academic support: Alma Sandra Lluevano

collaborating teachers: Ignacio Contreras, Héctor Pineda

construction: Jorge Jiménez, Rodrigo Leal

students: Angela Barradas, Ángel Bortoni, Omar Campa, Jaasiel Campos, Samantha Cantú, Oscar Cervantes, Jimena Félix, Sandra Garduño, Martina García, Karolina Hernández, Daniella Jiménez, Monica Loera, Alice Loera, Fabian Lozano, Viridiana Montes, Sebastián Marín, Moises Martínez, Emiliano Muñoz, Grecia Nájera, Lucia Olveda, Alejandro Palacios, Daniela Perales, Jessica Ramos, Jesús Reyna, Roberta Tejerina, Regina Trelles, Jazmín Velázquez

architects in charge (S-AR): César Guerrero, Ana Cecilia Garza

collaborators (S-AR): Orlando García, Carlos Morales

structural engineering: Ing. Joaquín Maldonado (Maldonado Kreis)

prototyping support: Esteban Vázquez, Jorge Dorantes, Antonio Varela

photography: Paco Álvarez – Recording Architecture | @recording.architecture

video: Jaasiel Campos, Héctor Pineda

model’s photography: Héctor Pineda

special thanks: CEDIM CEO Leslie García Novak

sponsors: TYM Forest, Andamios Monterrey, CEMEX, TRECCO, DAGS

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.