Symbolism building project activity 4 Chrysalisa pavilion

Symbolic Building Project

Course

INTRODUCCIÓN A LA ARQUITECTURA Y ARTE CONTEMPRÀNEOS – Spring 2025

Instructor: Miguel Luengo Angulo Group Members: Diae Madi, Salma Alsaleh and Ali Dia

Project Title

Chrysalis Pavilion

Group Concept

The Chrysalis Pavilion is a symbolic flower shop that merges architectural function with natural metaphor. Its form takes inspiration from a blooming flower, where each petal-shaped space corresponds to a programmatic function — display, seating, storage, and checkout. The pavilion is not just a shelter for selling flowers but a spatial symbol of transformation, nature, and renewal.

Design Strategy & Symbolism

As a group, we designed the Chrysalis Pavilion using a strategy of direct symbolism, where the form of the building clearly communicates its function and deeper meaning. The pavilion draws inspiration from a blooming flower, with each petal representing a different spatial function.

This symbolic structure reflects the idea of growth, transformation, and harmony with nature, much like a chrysalis turning into a butterfly. The circular central space and radiating petals reinforce this narrative of natural unfolding, creating an experience that is both spatial and symbolic.

Our design approach is influenced by SANAA’s work (2011–2015) and the lecture “How Thin is Thin?”, which encouraged us to explore themes of architectural softness, thinness, and flow. The building’s soft geometry and open boundaries foster a calm, welcoming atmosphere, where lightness and transparency support the symbolic function.

In this way, symbolism is not an ornament — it is integrated into the spatial logic: the building itself becomes the symbol.

Materials & Atmosphere

To express the symbolic softness of a flower, we selected the following material palette:

Exterior: Lightweight composite panels to shape fluid, petal-like forms
Interior: Warm-toned wood to enhance comfort and emotional warmth
Glazing: Large glass openings to maximize natural light and connection with nature

This strategy results in a structure that is both visually symbolic and materially sensitive. Sustainability and sensory comfort were key drivers in our decision-making.

Location & Context

The pavilion is designed for **La Jolla, California**, a residential area known for its calm, spring-like climate. The form stands out against the rectilinear urban context while remaining respectful to the surrounding landscape. Oriented for optimal daylight and community access, the building is meant to serve both symbolic and civic roles — as a flower shop and a quiet landmark of transformation.

Floor Plan & Form

The plan follows the natural logic of a flower: a central core surrounded by functional petals. Each petal-shaped room supports a specific purpose. The elevations and section articulate the flow of space and the cocoon-like gesture of unfolding — reinforcing the transformation metaphor while ensuring structural stability.

Visual Documentation

(Replace the filenames with your real uploaded files from Wikimedia Commons)

Licensing

This collaborative student project was created as part of an academic assignment under the supervision of Miguel Luengo Angulo.