designer proposes to install 'inhabitable tree' pavilions in lebanese forest

in the forest of jounieh, lebanon, designer desiree abboud proposes to install ‘inhabitable trees’, two types of pavilions resembling the two most abundant trees in the area — pinus pinea and quercus spp. the structures would provide an unprecedented outdoor meeting place for citizens, connecting and bonding the, with nature, city, and sea through strategic allocation.

the formation of branches relates to the growth of the city — ut was almost empty then it became very dense

the external hexagonal structure interlaces and extends as branches become the skin, while the internal voronoi cells resembling rocks are adjustable seats. the shadows the pavilions cast are almost indistinguishable from the shadows of the trees.

the interior of the pine pavilion imposes a majestic view of the trees, a linear perspective extending indefinitely, attesting to nature’s immortality

abboud has designed the pavilions following the hidden markov chain — the spacing is determined according to the branching of either the oak or pine trees. in the oak-fashioned pavilion, the skin is created of hexagonal shapes representing branching of trees. the spacing is indicated according to the branching of oak trees. the occupants appreciate the spatiality and shade of the trees while seated. moreover, they are not isolated from their surroundings but perfectly attuned to and engaged with the nature around them.

the model is 3D printed in a high-detail standard white resin (SLA)

the design of the pine pavilion follows the same strategy; however, given the architecture of the pine tree, another interesting design is obtained. the bottom increases permeability while the top is directional, almost closed and focused. 

the opening subtly draws visitors inside the pavilion

the seating is created from voronoi cells that can be adjusted as desired

the shadow of the skin is cast on the seating at different angles according to the position of the sun during the day

the vertebi algorithm runs once the states, starting, transitional, and emit probabilities are identified wherein the hidden states are the branches and the observed states are the distances

project info:

designer: desiree abboud

location: jounieh forest, lebanon

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: maria erman | designboom