Spiral Pavilion: A Masterpiece of Parametric Cardboard Architecture

Exploring the Innovative Design of Daisuke Nagatomo and Minnie Jan

The Spiral Pavilion, located at the C-Hub of National Cheng Kung University in Tainan City, Taiwan, is a self-standing structure entirely made of cardboard. Its unique properties lie in its digitally designed structure and skin, created through parametric modeling and digital CNC fabrication. The facade cut out pattern, inspired by Sakura petals, not only represents the flow of the pavilion but also creates an intriguing lighting effect within the space.

This innovative design was realized using 1.5 mm painted cardboard for the skin and 7 mm cardboard for the structure. Despite the seemingly fragile material, the Spiral Pavilion stands at 2.8 meters in width, 3.3 meters in depth, and 2.1 meters in height, showcasing the strength and versatility of cardboard as a building material.

The Spiral Pavilion serves as a semi-closed brainstorming space for the students of NCKU Creative Industry department. Inside the pavilion, stools are placed for students to sit, discuss, and get inspired in a non-pressured atmosphere. This unique interaction with the design is a testament to its functionality and purpose.

The design process of the Spiral Pavilion began in August 2014, with a month dedicated to design and another month for developing fabrication drawings. The pavilion was installed at C-Hub in November 2014, and the latest version was reinstalled in September 2016 for the Taiwan Design Expo, Betwin Ocean Exhibition.

The main challenge in constructing the Spiral Pavilion was maintaining the accuracy of the digital file and hand construction. Each part of the pavilion was labeled by a CNC machine, which also cut and pressed for folding lines. Given the nature of cardboard as a material, a lot of attention was paid to the design of parts joint and details to create enough structural strength.

The Spiral Pavilion was awarded the Iron in A' Generative, Algorithmic, Parametric and AI-Assisted Design Award in 2018. This award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Spiral Pavilion, with its unique use of cardboard and innovative design process, truly embodies these characteristics.