The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture

The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 2 of 33The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Exterior PhotographyThe Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Exterior PhotographyThe Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 5 of 33The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - More Images+ 28

  • Area Area of this architecture project Area:  10
  • Year Completion year of this architecture project Year:  2019
  • Photographs
    Photographs:David Foessel
  • Lead Architect: Jean-christophe Petillault
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The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Exterior Photography, Windows
© David Foessel

Text description provided by the architects. JCPCDR Architecture won the international competition «Le festival des cabanes» for the construction of an ephemeral cabin in the heart of Lake Annecy in France: made with local wood and built entirely on site by the architects. Nestled under the trees, between glade and forest, «the observatory» offers a point of view on the surrounding wilderness, through the prism of contemporary architecture.

The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 2 of 33
© David Foessel

Its openwork structure draws a micro-course, leading the walker or «observer» to a small elevated platform, judiciously oriented to provide a view overlooking the landscape. This circulation is studied and determined by several aspects, in order to enhance and integrate the site. The ramp leading to the platform, accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, complements the existing slope of the ground. The wooden slats filter the light of day, in a play of chiaroscuro echoing the forest and the clearing : the visitor enters the observatory under an opaque roof, gets used to this dark atmosphere, before moving towards the point of view, bathed in light.

The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Exterior Photography
© David Foessel
The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 26 of 33
Plan
The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 23 of 33
© David Foessel

With its double-pitched roof and warm proportions, the observatory recalls the vernacular image of a traditional cabin or cottage, reinvented through graphic lines. Perfectly integrated into its natural environment, it allows not only to observe the fauna and flora, but participates to the local ecosystem, thanks to its porous design, permeable to plants and species that would likely find refuge there.

The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 29 of 33
Axo
The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Exterior Photography
© David Foessel
The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 32 of 33
Elevation

Throughout the seasons, the contemporary architectural object becomes a showcase for its envi- ronment, a complete experience. The structure of the observatory, made entirely of fir, is both simple and ingenious. Its design favors straight and continuous lines, in order to highlight the essence of wood and to obtain an elegant style, without compromise, complementary to the abundant vegetation that surrounds it. This simplicity also guarantees a perfect quality of execution.

The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture - Image 7 of 33
© David Foessel

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Project location

Address:74210 Giez, France

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Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.
About this office
Cite: "The Observatory Pavilion / JCPCDR Architecture" 29 Aug 2019. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/923892/the-observatory-pavilion-jcpcdr-architecture> ISSN 0719-8884

© David Foessel

森林中的观望小木台 / JCPCDR Architecture

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