Circe: A Sculptural Pavilion by DaeWha Kang

Art Meets Architecture: The Floating Pavilion on Mohnesee Lake

DaeWha Kang, a renowned designer, has created a sculptural pavilion named Circe, inspired by the enchanting witch from Greek mythology. The pavilion's intriguing forms, which appear solid from one angle and transparent from another, are designed to seduce visitors much like its namesake. The primary forms of circle and diamond blend to create creature-like shapes, adding an element of wonder, mystery, and joy to the design.

Circe is part of an art exhibition titled 'Odyssee' on Mohnesee Lake in Germany. The exhibition features works from twenty-four artists, all displayed on the lake. The pavilion serves as a resting place for visitors, who swim from one artwork to another. The theme of transformation is embodied in the 278 identical pieces of spruce that shift and turn to create forms that alternate between organic and platonic.

The pavilion's construction was realized using a simple method of shifting, rotating, and fixing standard spruce 2x4's, allowing local workers to build the structure in just five days. The design uses parametric design, a system of form finding and documentation that enables the construction to occur in a standardized yet unique process. Each individual piece had holes drilled in the exact location required to create the next element of the form.

The most significant challenge faced by the design team was developing a system that could be easily understood and handled by carpenters in a short timeframe. Despite this challenge, the project was completed in a few days. The pavilion now moves and floats with the motion of the water, inviting visitors to climb it, find shade under it, or jump from it into the water.

Circe has been recognized for its innovative design and was awarded Silver in the A' Architecture, Building, and Structure Design Award in 2019. The award is given to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, strong technical characteristics, and remarkable artistic skill. Circe, with its unique blend of art and architecture, certainly fits this description.

Today, the project is in the process of transforming into a permanent site in the city, continuing to provide a space of wonder and joy for visitors. DaeWha Kang's Circe is a testament to the power of design, demonstrating how art and architecture can come together to create a truly transformative experience.