vector architects: riverside park pavilion, china

‘riverside park pavilion’ by vector architects, kunshan, chinaall images courtesy of vector architects

a composition of a sunken and built space creates a mixed use complex by beijing-based firm vector architects in an urban park in china. the pavilion invigorates the urban park with a flexible platform for a range a programs;  the leisurely compound can be a place of reflection with riverfront views or sliding glass doors can open to create a stage framed by greenery. the natural barrage of trees serves to separate the park from the bustling, nearby road– a feature abstracted in the skin of vertical aluminum louvers that creates a permeable interior space and translucent interface with the environment.

the fragmented volumes are also intertwined with the forested landscape while additionally respecting their impressive height with its sunken garden components. three pathways lead to the open-air spaces and lower level refreshment station. the two glazed gestures that characterize either side of the building are materially confronted with gray terrazo cladding. at night, the architecture balances total integration into the landscape with its function as a warmly lit beacon.    

the sunken buildings respect the crowning of the trees

‘riverside park pavilion’ by vector architects, kunshan, chinaall images courtesy of vector architects

aluminum louvers mimic and abstract the existing trees

the complex contains several areas of reflection, public restrooms, a refreshment station and the main leisure pavilion

view of the river-facing glazed gesture

aluminum louvers both envelope and offset a glazed volume 

pathways connect the sunken spaces to the built spaces

interior view of the leisure pavilion

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