The Cloud Pavilion: A Permanent Space for Art and Events

Previously, Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects was appointed by West Bund to design a set of pavilions as a part of the West Bund Biennale of Art & Architecture in 2013. The design acted as a counterpoint of the industrial cranes on the riverfront and can be used to rest along the nearby river. While originally the design was intended to last for the 2-month timeline of the Biennale, it remained in place for more than 2 years. Then in 2015, Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects was back to redesign the pavilion permanently for art and events.

The Cloud Pavilion

The idea of this project is to maintain the steel structure from the original pavilion and create a minimum of 100 square meter space for small exhibitions and events.

The project included the establishment of a small kitchen with storage while exuding the original notion of ‘a cloud’ from the Biennale.

The Illusion of an Abstract Floating Cloud

The ceiling is illuminated against a reflective mirrored surface during the night, offering the illusion of an abstract floating cloud along the waterfront.

The river view can be seen from this angle

The pavilion serves as the citizens meeting point. The firm also worked with Chris Hardie to come up with this design. Hardie stated that the new pavilion makes a singular space shaped like a glass cloud.

This creation relates to the way children usually draw a shape of a cloud. It is also often used in traditional Chinese prints. In addition, a cloud symbolizes a luck in ancient Chinese painting.

Via SHL