During the 2024 Olympics, Alibaba G. opened a temporary pavilion on the Champs-Elysées. Slightly superelevated, the pavilion aims to blend in, its rectangular shape pays homage to French gardening tradition. Rice paper from Chinese classical architecture provided inspiration for the layout: polycarbonate sheets were chosen to mimic its aesthetic qualities. Sheets also have superior light-weight, high-strength and thermal insulation properties. The main frame of the pavilion consists of shaped steel and all the rods are connected by bolts for easy transportation, assembly and dismantling. Secondary structures are of recyclable solid wood to reduce structural dead load. Standing seam polycarbonate sheets rooftops favor natural drainage. Corrugated sheets on the sides convey a sense of airiness. A semi-open space design avoids energy dissipation from air-conditioning: panels on the sides are designed to enhance natural ventilation. Full-length gaps under the roof eaves provide an outlet for hot air gathered indoors. The pavilion explores impermanence, its evocative shapes gliding gently over the boulevards. All components will be reused as part of a primary school charity program.
Bio SpaceStation Architects is a Beijing-based studio founded in 2012. We are committed to exploring the possibilities of small and medium-sized buildings and commercial space design. We are also actively engaged in the renovation of traditional living space and urban public facilities. "Space Station" quite literally stands as pun for what an "architecture studio" really deals with, this also resonates with the design approach we have been striving to bring about: using both reasoning and play as tools to navigate the course from conceptual to actualized space.
