World of Concrete Pavilion

The World of Concrete Masonry Pavilion serves as a field test for various design techniques currently piquing the interest of masons and design firms in the Southwest. At the forefront of investigation is masonry prefabrication. Working with donated standard module gray block, the team sought an answer to the question of understanding the opportunities present in combining prefabrication with conventionally laid masonry.

Through parametric modeling, the team quickly visualized various block assemblies, testing, and solidifying questions of spatial arrangements within the constraints of block modulation. Three radial beams made porous through shifting courses and absent vertical grouting structurally tie three conventionally laid bulge walls together. The walls and beams create a layered spatial sequence from outside in, with raised beams defining passageways to the central space.

The conventionally laid block afforded additional formal explorations to juxtapose the radial prefabricated segments. Challenging the orthogonal modularity of the block to create a sinuous form further expanded our thinking and exploration. Conventional laid block in a bulging form introduced variation across its length with the varying block relationships to each other. Here the craftsmanship of the team is paramount to ensure consistency and dynamism across the face. Once stacked and connected, the combination of prefab and conventional components became an honorific moment where the ends of the prefab walls are stitched into the conventionally laid block.

Ultimately, the form uses curvature to express contrasting phenomena. With components that contrast and intersect, the pavilion explores compression and relief while the prefabricated radii span overhead creating a feeling of lightness within the innate heaviness of the cementitious material.