oculus.
| collaborator Adrien Fera
The “Oculus” is a gathering space pavilion located by the Dana Porter Library at the University of Waterloo’s main campus situated on the Haldimand tract. Surrounded by a variety of buildings and services, the “Oculus” is situated on a high traffic area of the campus and is at the convergence of multiple key circulation paths.In terms of design inspiration, the organization of the pavilion was inspired by tulou houses while the braiding of the wood was inspired by germanic traditions which are both of our indigenous backgrounds. In conducting research for this project, it was found that these building motifs were common in many indigenous cultures including that of the Haudenosaunee people.
pods.
The pavilion is organized in concentric circles such that the outer circle are private pods, the next inner circle is a circulation path, and the most inner circle is a public gathering space. The pods are to be used throughout the year when events are not being held however the main purpose for the pavilion is to hold several key public events throughout the year. These events include a mid autumn festival, a mid winter festival, and a celebration in the spring.
detail.
The materials for the pavilion are locally sourced which include maple wood for the shells, cedar shake for the roof, as well as granite and limestone from the Canadian Shield for the seating and ground.
section.
