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Curved Glulam Roofs and Timber Piles Defining a Pavilion by the Sea

Authors:
Ryan Warwick, Oluwatobi Ladipo, Oluwatobi Ladipo
Curved Glulam Roofs and Timber Piles Defining a Pavilion by the Sea
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Curved glulam roofs rise above timber piles, creating a pavilion that evokes the movement of waves while offering a space for community interaction by Cardiff Bay.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved glulam roofs mimic the movement of waves, enhancing the connection to the sea.
02
Timber piles symbolize the relationship between the forest and the pavilion.
03
A traditional boat element is integrated as a focal point within the design.
04
The pavilion is situated on a sandy area, promoting direct interaction with the water.
05
The design encourages visitors to walk beneath the undulating roof, deepening their experience.

The Ocean Forest Pavilion sits on a small sandy area that overlooks Cardiff Bay. It combines the ideas of land and sea in a way that connects the natural landscape with visitors. The design encourages exploration and interaction, reflecting the movement of waves and the calmness of trees. It offers an engaging experience rooted in its coastal setting.

Structural Composition

The foundation consists of timber piles, which symbolize the connection to the forest and provide stability. This material choice reinforces the relationship between the built structure and the surrounding environment. By using timber, the design respects local resources and enhances its ecological context.

Design Dynamics

The roofs of the pavilion are shaped like waves and constructed with curved glulam timber. This undulating design creates a sense of fluidity, allowing light to flow through and cast interesting shadows inside. As people walk beneath these roofs, they are reminded of the sea and the idea of being under waves, helping to merge the experience of nature with the space.

Cultural Element

In the design, a boat made using traditional methods serves as a reminder of maritime culture. This element stands out as a point of interest while connecting the pavilion to historical practices of seafaring. It adds depth to the overall theme, inviting visitors to reflect on the cultural significance of the water.

The combination of these design elements results in a distinct environment. Visitors move along paths that weave beneath the wave-shaped roofs, enjoying a space that integrates craftsmanship, nature, and cultural storytelling. Each step offers a different perspective, showing how architecture can connect people to their surroundings in a meaningful way.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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