Intro

The pavilion was created to house the Conditions of Confinement exhibit, a centerpiece of the 2024 Aspen Ideas Festival. The primary goal was to design a structure that resonated with the vernacular of the Mountain West and Colorado, creating a sense of place while offering a space that was both welcoming and functional. It needed to attract passersby while protecting the exhibit’s sensitive graphics and video installations.

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My Role

Working alongside Rich Fridy of MPM Studio, who handled graphics, video, and coordination tasks, and Eric Angus of Angus Studio, who supported on-site coordination and communication, I took on a leading role in the project. I managed key aspects from the initial design phase to the successful on-site construction. My contributions included:

• Design Development: Spearheading the design refinement process to ensure the pavilion aligned with aesthetic, functional, and logistical requirements while reflecting the regional vernacular.

• Material Sourcing: Identifying and procuring materials that balanced the project’s budget with sustainability goals, ensuring high-quality and reusable components.

• Logistics Coordination: Managing the project’s compressed construction schedule, including organizing material deliveries and optimizing workflows for efficient assembly.

• On-Site Oversight: Supervising the construction process to ensure the pavilion was completed on time, meeting the high standards expected for the festival.

Results

The completed pavilion featured an A-frame design with mesh graphic panels and translucent roofing. These elements combined to create a glowing, intimate space that beautifully housed the exhibit. The structure successfully engaged festival attendees while addressing practical concerns like weather protection and sustainability. The structure was built in three days and materials were reused after the festival.