Terra Sem Mal is a pavilion located along the coastline of Florianópolis, Brazil, positioned at the meeting point of land and sea. Close to a resort built on an archaeological site, the pavilion's design focuses on the relationship between the natural environment and human-made structures. It aims to engage visitors with the cultural history of the region and the pressing reality of coastal development.

Design Context

The pavilion acts as a pathway along existing coastal trails, starting as a flat surface among uneven rock formations. This positioning highlights the contrast between the idealized "Land Without Evil," as described by local indigenous communities, and the encroaching development that threatens it. By addressing these contrasting ideas, the building encourages visitors to reflect on the evolving landscape and the complexities of its transformation.

Material Engagement

The materials used in the pavilion create a strong bond with the earth and community. Soil taken from the site is incorporated into the structure, grounding it in the local geography. Textured walls composed of stones and shells emphasize a connection to the coastal environment. Additionally, a dye from the Holocalyx balansae tree is applied to the soil, linking the design to local practices and traditions.

Structural Characteristics

The roof of the pavilion features wooden elements constructed using traditional pau a pique interlocking techniques. This choice brings warmth to the space and contributes to the building's stability. Lightweight fabric sections held by steel cables allow the structure to adapt to changing weather, promoting interaction with the elements of air and light.

Introspective Experience

Inside, the pavilion creates a space for reflection, designed to separate visitors from the sounds of the ocean. Strategic placement of water elements serves as both visual and auditory features, inviting moments of quiet contemplation. The drip of water offers a calming rhythm, contrasting with the bustling noise of the sea, and enhances the overall sensory experience for those who enter.

The water runs gently over a depression in the stone, creating an interplay of sound and space, inviting visitors to pause and engage with their surroundings.