secret forest pavilion's steel structure spirals around three trees in south korea

NEXT Architects’ Secret Forest reflects the surrounding nature

NEXT architects unveils Secret Forest, a pavilion nestled in the verdant landscapes of South Korea, delicately enclosing three trees within its structure. The project, conceived as part of the Anyang Public Art Project 7 (APAP7), offers a unique perspective on the surrounding scenery by mirroring a small fragment of the forest, effectively creating a forest within a forest. Situated on Samseongsan mountain, the pavilion redefines the concept of a vantage point, forging a deep connection between visitors and the natural environment. As visitors journey towards the central space of the steel pavilion, they are confronted with the solitary presence of the enclosed trees, accentuating their isolation from the larger forest.

all images courtesy of NEXT architects

corten steel structure bends to create a circular pathway

Upon following the circular pathway outside, the trees appear to seamlessly reintegrate with the surrounding woodland. Leveraging architectural ingenuity, the pavilion employs strategic design elements to guide visitors’ gaze and offer diverse perspectives of the landscape. The design team at NEXT architects crafts the pavilion primarily from corten steel, renowned for its durability, malleability, and organic aesthetic. The structure blends harmoniously with its forest surroundings, boasting a natural patina that complements the lush greenery. Inside, the use of reflective stainless steel enhances the mirroring effect, further immersing visitors in an enchanting world of visual illusion.

standing in the woods of Anyang, the pavilion blends in with the surrounding greenery

the structure redefines the concept of a vantage point, connecting visitors with nature

the pavilion, part of Anyang Public Art Project 7, mirrors a fragment of the forest, creating a unique perspective

following the circular pathway, the trees seamlessly blend back into the woodland

inside the steel pavilion, three enclosed trees evoke a sense of solitude amidst the forest

crafted primarily from corten steel, the pavilion boasts durability and an organic aesthetic

the structure’s natural patina complements the surrounding greenery, blending harmoniously with the forest

schematic display of the development of Secret Forest

project info:

name: Secret Forest

architect: NEXT architects | @nextarchitects
design team: Bart Reuser, Baekhyun Chi

location: Anyang, South Korea

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom