A new pavilion for Dreispitz using circular principles
For the inaugural Architekturwoche Basel, Switzerland, Mallorca-based architecture studio isla – winner of the competition for the Basel Pavilion – presents Loggia Baseliana, an urban passageway and veranda that opens up to the former industrial district of Dreispitz, south of Basel. Envisaged as an open, democratic structure that invites passage or permanence, the pavilion simultaneously serves as a shelter, a stage, an exhibition space, and a materialization of circular economic practices, which connects the past, present and future of the area. The linear pavilion as an urban space relates to the iconic Swiss structure of the Kapelbrücke in Lucerne, which connects both banks of the city across the Reuss River.
The pavilion is a pioneering project of circular architecture as all its components and materials have been reclaimed from the Basel region, and organized in a catalog for the competition. The pavilion is composed of porticoed modules, combined into six different units extending over 50m. Each unit has its own constructive system and material character with a mix of components and internal solutions, combined with formal clarity and homogeneity under the shape of a vernacular pitched roof. The roof is an important element of the structure, generously cut at preset intervals to create openings for natural light, while simultaneously generating an iconic silhouette. Inside, a continuous 50m-long bench follows the curve of the structure and allows a panoramic view outwards, with the industrial context of Dreispitz in the background.
This contemplative pavilion acts as an invitation to Basel’s many programmers and cultural agents. Combining both a program of events and inviting spontaneous use, the pavilion is a framework for conviviality, encouraging nearby residents, students and passersby to stop by and integrate the pavilion into their daily lives.
The connections and contemplation determined by the pavilion are a fundamental part of the urban environment, which can be traced back to iconic examples such as Florence’s Vasari Corridor. These corridors allow to unveil and contemplate the city in a progressive way. The Loggia Baseliana opens up to the formerly industrial area of Dreispitz, a space that—like the pavilion itself—is a full of potential and possibilities. The pavilion opened its doors to the public in May 2022, and will stay open until October 2022.
Project: Loggia Baseliana / Location: Frankfurt-Strasse 54, 4142 Münchenstein, Switzerland / Architects: isla architects / Partners in charge: Marta Colón de Carvajal, Juan Palencia de Sarriá / Project team: María Gutiérrez Bas, Cristina Gutiérrez Chevalier, Chiara Liebermann, Annachiara Trabbachin / Collaborators: Husner AG, Zirkular, Architektur Basel / Structure consultant: Mecanismo ingeniería / Circular economy consultant: Cristina Fernández / Material innovation consultant: Buj Studio / Built surface: 100m² / Competition: 2021.12 / Completion: 2022.5 / Photograph: ©Luis Díaz Díaz (courtesy of the architect)
