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The Lantern PavilionThis striking pavilion in Sandnes, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/worlds-tallest-wooden-building-planned-for-norway/" target="_blank">Norway</a> was constructed out of <a href="http://inhabitat.com/salvaging-swedens-timber/" target="_blank">sustainably-sourced timbers</a> and glass slates as a way to highlight environmentally friendly architecture and materials. Located at the crossroads of busy streets in the center of town, the pavilion also acts as an important meeting place, market hall and concert venue. Designed and built by French and Norwegian firms, <a href="http://www.platforms.fr/spip.php?article4" target="_blank">AWP</a> and <a href="http://www.atelieroslo.no/lanternen_info.html" target="_blank">AtelierOslo</a>, the Lantern Pavilion marries traditional timber architecture with newer contemporary architecture from both parts of the city.1
The Lantern PavilionSandnes was named one of the 'Cultural Capitals' of Europe in 2008.2
The Lantern PavilionThe city wanted to promote the innovative use of sustainable timber in contemporary architecture in the public domain through a design competition.3
The Lantern PavilionThe French-Norwegian team, AWP + AtelierOslo took home first prize and constructed their 140 sq meter, timber-framed pavilion right in the heart of the city.4
The Lantern PavilionThe timber beams reflect the older architecture, while the glass is a nod to the newer construction.5
The Lantern PavilionThe glass slates en route to their installation on top of the pavilion.6
The Lantern PavilionLarge timber oak beams embedded in the concrete base are bolted together to form criss-crossing columns, which support the sculptural, geometric, wood frame.7
The Lantern PavilionGlass covers the entire wood frame like slate tiles on a roof and each glass panel is printed with a translucent pattern, which reflects down onto the ground.8
The Lantern PavilionAt night, interior lighting reflects off the glass and makes the pavilion glow like a lantern.9
The Lantern PavilionThe glass roof allows daylight to stream into the space during the day and provides a protected space for people to meet10
The Lantern PavilionThe pavilion has a lower profile than the surrounding buildings so as not to compete with them, but instead to compliment them.11
The Lantern PavilionLocated at a busy crossroads, the pavilion takes up as much of the plaza as it could.12
The Lantern PavilionTimber benches are built into the footings of the columns to provide seating for people enjoying the pavilion.13
The Lantern PavilionThe pavilion is on tour and can be seen at the Scandinavia House in New York City through the Nordic Models + Common Grounds exhibition.14
