Architects: Baldó Arquitectura
Year: 2023
Blending Nature and Architecture
Architectural Symphony in Cantabria
Baldó Arquitectura’s creation, the “GODAI” Pavilion in Cantabria, Spain, emerges as a harmonious response to the need for an adjoining pavilion for guests connected to an existing rural home’s pool. The site’s natural slope and the climatic elements of strong winds, rain, and the summer sun played pivotal roles in shaping this architectural endeavor.
Designing for Dialogue and Integration
Situated in the southern area of the plot, the pavilion serves as a ‘pool house,’ fostering a dialogue between diverse architectural elements. The objective was clear – create a unified space where the pool acts as a central connector between the existing residence and the new pavilion. A unique aspect of the design is the emphasis on natural materials, weaving a seamless connection with the surroundings.
GODAI: Embracing the Five Elements
Named “GODAI,” the pavilion draws inspiration from the Japanese concept of the “five elements” – earth, water, fire, wind, and emptiness. The expansive roof harmonizes various functions, fostering a connection with nature through transparent facades. The interior ceilings, resembling ‘origami,’ detach from the outer envelope, adding a personalized touch to the space.
Bamboo Elegance and Sustainability
Bamboo takes center stage in this architectural masterpiece, contributing to the sought-after “walnut effect.” The exterior features black bamboo, presenting a dark and robust facade, while the interior boasts natural bamboo, radiating brightness and warmth. The exterior facade transitions from total opacity to transparency, accentuated by a second skin of bamboo slats arranged in harmony with the Fibonacci sequence.
Adaptable Roofs and Sustainable Practices
The roofs of the pavilion exhibit flexibility, folding and detaching from the outer shell, enhancing the overall design. Sustainability takes a front seat with passive systems like the expansive roof offering solar and rain protection, and a system of vertical slats providing privacy, cross ventilation, and controlled lighting. The materials chosen amplify the commitment to sustainability – cork and mineral rock wool for insulation, local pine wood and recycled OSB boards for interior partitions, and bamboo throughout the construction, both inside and out.
A Symphony of Sustainability and Aesthetics
The “GODAI” Pavilion not only stands as a testament to architectural finesse but also showcases a commitment to sustainable practices. It blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating an inviting space that reflects the synergy between nature and human design. Baldó Arquitectura has succeeded in crafting a space where aesthetics and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony.
