Water pavilion by Diego Daniel Valle Almagro | Jacques Rougerie Foundation

The proposal for the Water Pavilion explores various water principles and their translation into an architectural experience. The notions of fluidity, buoyancy and constant change are the basis of the project. The pavilion stands between submerged and emerged levels – as submarines do – defining a sensible state of equilibrium between dryness and wetness. The project invites all visitors for a walk towards the ocean. The visual effect created makes the spectator feel like he is walking directly to the ocean and aims to represent the real risk that many coastal areas around the world will face because of sea level rise, one of the major consequences of global warming. In order for the project to become visible and referential, an icon made of water is displayed to visitors. At the end of the access plaza, a hole engineers the free fall of water. This creates a cloud of water vapor and the sound of a cascade. Flexibility: Mobility The Water Pavilion does not have any substructure. The pavilion is conceived as a boat and is therefore flexible like any other ship, so it could remain at its original location or travel around the region. Hydraulics: The Pavilion also functions as a hydraulic machine system which allows manifesting various configurations in relationship with the water. By filling in water storage tanks distributed along its structure the pavilion can become lighter or heavier and therefore rise or lower its level with the water surface. The project also includes a water purification system that allows transforming salted water into potable water. The consumption of energy is reduced to the minimum thanks to an efficient cooling and insulation water system. Solar panels and micro turbines on the cascade collaborate to generate the energy needed for the pavilion.