A39 ASA EXPO 18 INTRODUCTION PAVILION

Definitions of vernacular architecture commonly describe construction techniques focusing directly on human needs, application of local materials and innate understanding of context as generators of form resulting in anthropomorphic, affordable, often sustainable buildings that vary in shape around the world. The introduction pavilion: SQUARING VERNACULAR for the “Beyond Ordinary” Architect EXPO ‘18 festival centred around topic of vernacular architecture, aims to, beside of providing exhibition space, represent the vernacular modus operandi. With deliberately nondescript form it becomes subtle background to 4 surrounding pavilions. The pristine volume hides functional interior with rectangular and square rooms serving as exhibition spaces. Two corner entrances joined by diagonal axis provide efficient circulation between the rooms. However, the sequence of visit is not enforced: the floating structure allows visitors to enter and move inside freely thus making them actively participate in the design by curating their own visit. The elevated structure combined with lack of roof further speculates on the inside/outside relation, and the actual “needs” of an exhibition. Following “by the people, for the people” principle, it is the visitors who finalize the pavilion whether by engaging in the discussion inaugurated on the walls or by freely drawing and writing on the walls. The materials of the pavilion reflect the idea that vernacular cannot be associated with any specific products instead searching for what is most available. In global cities such as Bangkok most ubiquitous materials have often industrial origin like cardboard and synthetics. The walls of pavilion are made entirely out of honeycomb cardboard which serves as both substructure and cover. MDF cubes and vinyl spheres, basic geometric forms, share the load of the structure above. Materials commonly used for packaging become structural showcasing their hidden potentials. Spatial experience of the pavilion is supported by its height and size of the spheres.