Tricarico, IT | Paris, FR
The hive becomes an integrative component of the current master plan “Ipogea”, developed by the city of AL Ain. The study proposes trees rendering the area a more attractive natural setting. Additionally we designed a pavilion which runs parallel to the highway limiting the spread of the urban encroachment. This pavilion becomes a venue for future exhibitions in a “nature-oriented” atmosphere. The pavilion is an hexagonal structure composed of aluminum ribs. The design takes its inspiration from the shape of oases and beehives functioning as micro cities within the pavilion. Each hex consists of a carbon structure covered with a Kevlar fiber (woven with geometric patterns) and a protective insulation layer. We keep the environment cool by a piping system designed to cool both the interior and exterior with fine-mist water spray. To contribute to the interior comfort, the floor is suspended and ventilated. The structure is extremely light and designed to be easily mounted; each hex is autonomous from a structural point of view and is removable since it is bolted to the lightweight platform that supports it
Status: Unbuilt
Location: Al Ain, AE
Firm Role: Architect
Additional Credits: Architect: Rabatanalab, Daniele Molinari, Rocco Salomone
Project Team: Ciro Gordon, Danilo Loffreno, Donato Montesano, Camilla Tedesco, Angelica Maragno
Civil & Structural Engineer: DOF Engineers
Façade Consultant: I-Sky-Engineering
Lead Designer: Danilo Loffreno
Project Management and general development: IPOGEA