A Pavilion Extension Spares All The Trees On The Site And Gives Them A Function

Even though an extension has to be looked at in relation to the structure it complements, it also needs to be recognized as a separate structure itself. Take this pavilion for example. It was designed by Branch Studio Architects as an extension to a family house and it different from the main house in terms of style, having its own identity and character.

Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
This is an extension added to an existing family home that needed some extra space and a new bedroom suite
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The materials used for the exterior of the pavilion link the structure to its surroundings
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
Large glass sections connect the interior spaces to the gardens and surroundings

The initial family house had been designed by the clients themselves during the 90’s and they didn’t want to use the same style for the extension. They wanted this to be a semi-detached structure which could very well be considered a freestanding building. The placement of the extension was problematic since there were quite a few trees present on the site and the clients wanted to preserve them all. And so they did, hence the name of the extension: pavilion between trees.

Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The clients wanted the extension to include a new master bedroom suite
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The suite has full-height glass walls that immerse it into the beautiful landscape
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
There’s a constant connection between the indoor spaces and the courtyard and gardens

The constance connection between the internal spaces and the courtyard and gardens creates a strong relationship between the rooms and the views, especially since every tree was emphasized in a special way and was given a function. Some, for instance, become focal points which can be admired from inside the house. They’re all points of interest, in one way or another.

Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The pavilion was positioned between existing trees, all of which were preserved and given a function
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
Every zone in the pavilion has its own connection with the outdoors
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The interior was designed using the same simple and raw materials features on the facade

Full-height glass walls are the connection between the interior spaces and the external courtyard and garden, bringing in natural light and establishing a relationship with the views. The pavilion includes three zones, one of which is the bedroom. This area is elevated at the highest point over the garden.

Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The plywood and timber elements give the interior a warm and welcoming ambiance
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The bathroom is very zen and minimalist, featuring a palette of grey and brown

The bathroom area is interesting, in the sense that its connection with the outdoors is taken to a new level. There’s an outdoor shower and even the tub is outside, with a steel mesh screen that offers privacy and a glass wall that encloses the space while maintaining a connection with the surroundings. In here you can also see the palette of materials used throughout, which is mainly focused on raw and exposed elements meant to match the nature of the site.

Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
There’s an outdoor shower area with a very fresh atmosphere
Pavilion betweent trees with an outdoor tub
The tub is placed in a semi-open space with a glass wall and a mesh screen extension