Barilla International Pavilion | Charles Tashima Architecture

Charles Tashima Architecture was selected as a finalist out of a field of 268 international entries. Our concept for PAVILIONUOVO responded to Barilla’s ambitious and multifaceted brief for a forward-looking and strong form of architecture. We proposed a bold and embracing ring made of steel, glass and timber - suspended over the agri-industrial landscape of Pedrignano just on the outskirts of Parma, Italy.

The design comprises an assembly of overlapping oval rings that engage and activate the total space of the site – spiralling, interconnecting, overlapping, defining. The circle conveys a positive and emotive message of harmony, unity, collaboration and community. It communicates the ideals of communal exchange at different scales – from the everyday sharing of a family meal to the ever larger ripples of the socio-economic community of Parma and the world.

Operating at both a symbolic and experiential level, the project accommodates advanced technical and programmatic needs and requirements within interconnected flexible and adaptable spaces. Continuous paths and spaces are choreographed to dynamically experience, participate, learn, discover and innovate.

A series of rings define six overlapping zones of space. Each of these are sewn together by a network of overlapping routes. Factory worker, researcher, spectator, performer, lecturer, farmer, buyer, visitor – all cross paths in a flow of action, exchange and participation.

Seen from afar, the Pavilion is an identifiable and memorable form set against the landscape and buildings of its surroundings. An aerial view recalls not only the form of spaghetti strands looped to the white and yolk of an egg, but also that of the recognisable Barilla brand logo.