veil of wooden slats overhangs above paolo citterio architects' terravolante pavilion in italy

terravolante Pavilion stands in Besnate

Paolo Citterio Architects’ ‘Terravolante’ Public Festival Pavilion in Besnate, Italy, emerged during the recent pandemic era, responding to societal challenges of isolation. Situated within the context of the sports center, amidst notable landmarks like Lake Maggiore and Malpensa airport, the 330 sqm structure needed to be both practical and aesthetically pleasing, while embodying a sense of unity and representation.

Drawing from historical narratives rooted in the region’s past, the design pays homage to the Iron Age pile-dwelling cultures and the aeronautical heritage of the early 20th century. This fusion of influences led to a lightweight, industrial-inspired wooden form, reflecting efficiency and historical reverence.

all images by Paolo Mazzo Fotografo

pavilion’s sets up laminated fir wood arches

The pavilion, elevated 2.4 meters above ground level, functions as a wooden hull housing essential amenities like kitchens and bathrooms. Its construction showcases precise engineering, with laminated fir wood arches defining the roof’s simple yet elegant profile. A veil of wooden slats suspended from these arches adds visual interest while filtering natural and artificial light.

Grounded by ‘Poroton’ load-bearing bricks and laminated wood columns, the pavilion’s design incorporates a 7.5-meter overhang at the main entrance, creating a striking visual effect of suspension. The architectural project by Paolo Citterio Architects serves as a unifying hub for the sports center and extends its services to the broader community, fostering a sense of collective engagement and celebration. Paolo Mazzo Fotografo‘s lens captures ‘Terravolante’ pavilion.

Paolo Citterio Architects presents ‘Terravolante’ Public Festival Pavilion

nestled within the Besnate sports center, this 330 sqm structure aims to embody a sense of unity and representation

historical homage meets modern efficiency in this industrial-inspired pavilion

elevated 2.4 meters above ground, the pavilion serves as a wooden hull for essential amenities

precise engineering defines the roof’s elegant profile with laminated fir wood arches

a 7.5-meter overhang at the main entrance adds visual drama to the suspended structure

wooden slats suspended from the arches create captivating light patterns

Paolo Citterio Architects’ pavilion fosters community engagement and celebration

‘Terravolante’ Pavilion stands as a unifying hub within the Besnate sports center

project info:

name: Terravolante
architect: Paolo Citterio (PCA | Paolo Citterio Architetti)

construction: Giacomo Maurelli

mechanical systems and fire prevention: Lorenzo Comi

safety and hydraulic engineering: Marco La Viola

contractor: Edilcorema srl, Legnano (Mi)

laminated wood carpentry: Pozzi Albino srl, Colico (LC)

tinsmith: Lucchini srl, Busto Arsizio (Va)

procedure manager: Luigi Battistella

municipal administrators and institutions involved: Gianclaudio Negri Secondary School ‘Alessandro Manzoni’ – prof. Pasquale Bonifiglio

location: Besnate, Italy

photography: Paolo Mazzo Fotografo | @paolo_mazzo

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom