ReVærk, a renowned design studio, presents ‘A Natural Pavilion,’ a manifestation of their innovative housing concept, ‘NaturligRækkerne.’ This project is a part of the larger ‘4to1 planet’ initiative, generously funded by the Realdania and Villum Fonden foundations. It forms one of the Sustainable Development Goals-pavilions, a collaborative effort initiated by the Danish Association of Architects and the UIA World Congress of Architects 2023, in conjunction with Copenhagen Municipality and City & Harbour.
Embracing Sustainability: NaturligRækkerne Townhouse Concept
At the heart of the pavilion lies the townhouse concept, ‘NaturligRækkerne,’ conceived by ReVærk as an emblem of environmentally conscious and indoor climate-friendly living. This pioneering project reimagines the traditional townhouse typology, leveraging its ubiquity to integrate radical sustainability principles and natural materials seamlessly.
Elemental Elegance: Designing with Purpose
Focusing on minimizing carbon emissions throughout the development process, ‘NaturligRækkerne’ townhouses feature a streamlined construction approach. Key elements include rammed earth separating walls, internal loadbearing timber structures, and external biogenic insulation cassettes. This deliberate material selection not only enhances technical performance but also contributes to the architectural charm of the ensemble.
Elevating Tradition: Refined Sensibilities of Basic Materials
‘A Natural Pavilion’ serves as a testament to the architects’ vision of elevating humble materials to a realm of refined aesthetics and sensory delight. By showcasing the potential of materials like rammed earth, wood fiber insulation, and round timber, often perceived as archaic, ReVærk underscores the intrinsic value of historical building practices in shaping future sustainable architecture.
Towards Sustainable Exemplification: Bridging the Gap
Recognizing the pivotal role of materials and innovative solutions in driving the sustainable transition, ReVærk emphasizes the need for qualified architectural exemplars within the Danish context. In ‘A Natural Pavilion,’ this vision materializes through the meticulous utilization of wood fiber boards for insulation, locally sourced soil for rammed earth, and unsorted wood from Dinesen for various structural components.
In conclusion, ‘A Natural Pavilion’ by ReVærk encapsulates a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability, offering a compelling narrative for the future of architectural practice in a rapidly evolving world.