by amauri gaspar conceptualizes amazon pavilion
Located on the banks of the Amazon River, Amauri Gaspar envisions a pavilion in the shape of a fish trap that preserves and revives the memory of the native culture. Celebrating the community’s rich heritage and way of life, the large curved structure within has facilities to preserve the marine wealth and biodiversity of the region, united with distinctive tourist experiences.
Boasting a simple native architecture — emblematic of the synthesis of man’s relationship with nature in the Amazon — the pavilion is clad in woven, latticed slats that mimic the traditional basket handcraft technique in a delicate display of construction. On top of the complex is Gaspar with a PET roof integrated with photovoltaic cells for renewable energy. The complex also floats on stilts to adapt to the sharp changes in water levels of the Amazon River throughout the year.
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floating complex to preserve local biodiversity
Fluidly adaptable, the Amazon Pavilion floats to adapt to the fluctuating water levels and sharp change in seasons. ‘You don’t fight the water, you live with it,’ Notes designer Amauri Gaspar. The island has two very different seasons, creating contrasting living situations for the residents. For the entire season from March to August – a great time to visit the Igapos – water levels rise to 15 meters. During the dry season from September to February, river levels reach their lowest point, reducing the space for fish and making fishing and alligator spotting much easier.
In response, the foundations of the pavilion are ceramic tables filled with reeds, which are considered impervious to rising sea levels. The designer attaches rings around the pillars and posts to stabilize the complex and ensure it stays in place despite the floating movements of the building.
laden with the memory of native heritage
The project honors the memory and lifestyle of the indigenous people – a community that fought for its land, its diversity, and its historical customs – with a heritage and sustainable development scheme. They represent less than 5% of the world’s population, while indigenous communities protect 80% of global biodiversity. As such, the pavilion is committed to preserving the natural elements of the region, incorporating farming and marine areas, algae cultivation and bioenergy spaces.
In addition, the complex generates an egalitarian hierarchy for its program, drawing on the lack of social classes of indigenous society, where everyone is treated equally. This is reflected in the architecture, circulation, and internal divisions. The pavilion has four levels. At the lowest level there are restaurants and private spaces for administration. Above it, there are exhibition floors where daily activities are developed. At the entrance, the portals maintain temperature and air circulation. Around it, a large pier deck leads to fish farming and marine areas, algae and bioenergy cultivation spaces, and tourism facilities.
project information:
name: Amazon Pavilion
designer: Arch. Amauri Gaspar
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edited by: ravail khan | design boom
