LightCanyon

This project aimed at exploring different ways of manipulating daylight, creating a space with high levels of diffused light. The design process was constantly informed by the use of daylighting simulations, which were conducted after every design alteration. The inspiration for this pavilion came from the Antelope Canyon in Arizona, which features concave and convex surfaces, and top and side lighting through curvilinear cracks. The main principles of the forms found in this canyon were used as guidelines for the conceptual development of this project.

The use of curves combined with thick walls and the aim of guiding daylight into the space while diffusing it, were our main design strategies. Most openings of the pavilion are concentrated in the south, utilizing the larger amounts of sun that come from this orientation. Additional openings are created on the north side, and a complex roof structure, with "tunnel-like" openings was introduced to generate ample diffused light in the space while avoiding direct sunlight. The pavilion is placed in the Death Valley of southern California, providing a cool but magical refuge to the national park's visitors. We select a red concrete material to imitate the natural color of the stones found in Antelope Canyon.