Architect Kristoffer Tejlgaard has designed and built a fully transparent 25-square-meter pavilion that resembles a water droplet. Conceived to create a high-quality contemporary alternative to traditionally glazed greenhouses, the structure is an engineered self-supporting dome, which can function as a garden pavilion, greenhouse, mobile exhibition pavilion, or recreational space.
To ensure quick build and disassembly times, 6mm polycarbonate sheets are assembled with stainless steel nuts and bolts.
The curvature of the structure is generated by the rhombus shapes of the flat sheets and by displacing the holes slightly between the overlapping sheets in a controlled manner. The curvature of the facade gives the pavilion incredible strength, which allows for the simple and thin facade without the need for internal load bearing walls or steel frames.
In order to reach the required precision, CNC-milling is used for the sheets, which are also dimensioned to take full advantage of standard sized polycarbonate sheets from the manufacturer. With an oval profile and circular footprint the design maximises available floor space and gains standing height along the inside rim of the facade. The polycarbonate sheets are designed to overlap in a fish scale fashion, keeping the structure wind and waterproof, without the need for seals or caulk.
The droplet can be tailored to accommodate individual needs – from the type of foundation to size, shading, facade solution, transparency level and interior layout.
It is also possible to add an awning to provide shade on sunny days. The off white cotton awning will be available in several sizes and is easily attached to the droplet with stainless steel hooks on the inside of the facade. The same system can be used for a cotton tent, providing privacy and allows one to use the pavilion as a guest house.
The droplet can be fitted with a base made of CLT (Cross Laminated Timber). The base consists of 3 interlocking pieces and ensures that the droplet is kept grounded during stormy weather and creates an instant flooring. Importantly, along with the above mentioned properties, the pavilion has been designed for disassembly. All materials used in the structure can easily be recycled when the pavilion no longer serves a purpose.