A performance pavilion recently opened up in New Orleans, specifically constructed using weathering steel. It sits on two points secured to the ground, giving it a weightless appearance. The structure was developed by Spackman Mossop Michaels who designed the pavilion along side the park in Luther George park in Springdale, Arkansaas. It is intended to allow for coverage during events held on the open lawn.
The pavilion also acts as a canopy, bridging the gap between an open lawn and shade. It rests atop a short, wedge shaped platform that is 150 feet long and 46 meters wide. On one side there is a green space while the other slopes down towards an embankment.
The pavilion boasts a larger space intended for shows to accommodate 3,000 people as well as an intimate setting room for smaller gatherings like film nights, allowing a maximum capacity of 100. “This innovative dual-sided design includes all performance and theatrical rigging within the shell, enabling a wide range of flexible uses,” – asserted Trahan Architects.
While there is little information about this building, it is claimed that steel plates only one centemeter thick make up the body of this building. ‘Rule lines’ which are ‘partially submerged below the surface’ have ligthing-coves built-in them which accentuate the micromeret joints which break the facade into parts.
This structure appears to be floating as it consists of two surfaces that expand over 45 meters and only have two ground points. One side of the building anchors on the stage and later diagonally extends away. ‘The form of the pavilion is a sweeping volume which is bound on one side and reaches over the walkway before landing at the opposite side of the pavilon.’
The cladding of this pavilion is made from weathering steel to ensure the longevity of the building’s standing appearance. The patinations alongside the weathered surface will replace the exposed raw steel, which will result in a geometry that is earthy and rich in nature. ‘The steel will transform slowly over time into an subdued style of geometry pasted with rich, earthy tones.’
Recently completing renovations on the Superdome of New Orleans before the NFL Super Bowl in 2025 and sharing plans for the Cube structure for the Expo Plus United States Pavillion in Osaka 2025.
