Architects: Studio*K
Area: 130 m²
Year: 2022
Photography: Kristina Egbers
Lead Architect: Kristina Egbers
Structural Calculations: ArchStruct Design Partners
Lighting Design: Phenomenal Solutions
Furniture: Pachipamwe Africa
Ground Floor Area: 130 m2
Roof Terrace Area: 110 m2
Clients: Zimbabwe German Society / Goethe Zentrum Harare
Implementation/Construction: Shining Beam Construction
City: Harare
Country: Zimbabwe
The Zimbabwe German Society and Goethe Zentrum in Harare embarked on the creation of a new event space in 2019, following the dismantlement of the original gazebo due to structural issues. Under the guidance of Studio*K, led by Kristina Egbers, the Pavilion emerged as a versatile venue integrating the landscape with its architecture. The structure, comprising twisted masonry columns and a timber truss roof, introduces a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing a blend of traditional and modern design elements. This introduction not only supports events but also incorporates a roof terrace for more intimate gatherings, reinforcing the Pavilion’s role in cultural and social activities in Harare.
The Zimbabwe German Society/Goethe Zentrum Harare embarked on creating a new event space in the garden of their Zimbabwean center in Harare, following the dismantling of a long-standing gazebo in 2018 due to structural issues. This gazebo featured a traditional Zimbabwean roof made from wood and thatch.
In response to the need for a new central event space, the journey began in 2019, culminating in the selection of Kristina Egbers as the lead architect. Her vision for the Pavilion centered on an open architectural form composed of masonry columns, which uniquely twist to open toward various segments of the garden, enhancing the connection with the natural surroundings.
These masonry columns, deeper than standard, create a transitional zone between the indoors and the outdoors, effectively shielding the interior from the elements without the need for doors or windows. The roof structure, utilizing standard Zimbabwean timber trusses, mirrors the angles of the columns below, creating a cohesive and dynamic aesthetic.
The Pavilion is uniquely configured for a variety of uses, featuring a flat roof that supports a roof terrace designed for hosting smaller groups of up to 50 people, adding a versatile edge to this architectural endeavor. This design not only leverages conventional construction techniques but also elevates them to produce a uniquely staged space for concerts and events, providing an innovative solution to the site’s architectural and functional challenges.
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Project Location
Address: Harare, Zimbabwe
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
