Dezeen Magazine

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Chinese studio Interval Architects have completed a pavilion that snakes around a school square in Beijing like the tracks of a roller coaster.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

The continuous timber belt folds up and down from the ground to create louvred walls and a roof, which are supported by a series of metal columns.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Where the chunky edges of the structure meet the ground they create benches and surround new patches of grass.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

As well as providing a seating area for students, the pavilion can also be used as an outdoor exhibition area.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Some other timber pavilions we've published recently include one with a swimming pool inside and another for observing reindeer - see more stories about pavilions here.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Photography is by GU Yunduan.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

The following text is from Interval Architects:


Rollercoaster

Situated in a tranquil environment of one of the best vocational schools in Beijing, the project aims at providing an iconic image to the institution as well as redefining the use of an existing public space on the central square of the campus.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Initially, the client wanted to put on the square a themed sculpture with a monumental effect and scale. A huge pedestal was even already built for the sculpture to put on. However the obvious problem of the square is actually a severe lack of effective public space that would allow students to gather and communicate. What the school really needs is not a monument in the center of the campus, but a humanistic and functional gathering space for students and an event space for school activities.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Therefore, with the intention to create an efficient public space, we proposed a continuous self-folding belt structure that resembles the image of a “roller coaster”. The structure folds three-dimensionally to create a series of spaces such as open gardens, shaded pavilions and exhibition corridors. The entire belt bends around and in-between the existing trees on the site so they are well-preserved and maximally utilized for shading.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

The rollercoaster-like structure presents a highly recognizable identity to the school as well as a fun image that was widely welcomed by the students.

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Credits:
Project Title: Rollercoaster

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Location: Beijing Huangzhuang Vocational School

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Architect: Interval Architects
Project Architect: Oscar KO, GU Yunduan

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects

Lighting Consultant: MIAO Hailin

Rollercoaster by Interval Architects