Wooden structure with arches and beams, showcasing a sustainable timber pavilion design.

Michele De Lucchi’s Sustainable Pavilion Celebrates Woodcraft with a 50-Meter Timber Marvel

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Written by John Oliver

2026-09-26

Redefining Architectural Elegance with Wood and Stone

Standing proudly on the Pedrali site, the Pavilion designed by Michele De Lucchi and his studio, AMDL CIRCLE, is a stunning architectural feat that exemplifies the concept of a sustainable timber pavilion. This expansive structure, measuring 50 meters in length, 12 meters in width, and 9 meters in height, cleverly balances scale with a sense of intimate proportion. Characterised by wood and stone, the structure integrates seamlessly into its natural surroundings, offering a striking yet harmonious presence.

For more on timber’s architectural potential, explore how Melbourne Cottage combines timber and glass for harmonious design.

Michele De Lucchi’s Vision on Wood’s Timeless Appeal

Michele De Lucchi regards wood as more than a mere material, appreciating its extraordinary qualities. “This seemingly simple material, which has been with us for millennia, still holds countless secrets,” he notes. This perspective informed his deliberate approach to the Pavilion’s renovation, maintaining respect for the origins and processes of the wood used in the transformation.

Close-up of intricate wooden joints connecting beams in the pavilion.

Adaptive Reuse and a Sustainable Timber Pavilion

The Pavilion, adapted meticulously for modern use, features a brass-clad timber roof enhancing durability while preserving the structure’s original integrity. Notably, recovered wooden shingles were artfully repurposed by students from Bergamo’s La Traccia Art High School Centre, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability through the #Pedrali4Education initiative. The installation of photovoltaic panels and a geothermal energy plant further underscores its eco-friendly credentials, making it a model of eco-conscious architecture.

Interiors that Foster Warmth and Versatility

Inside, the Pavilion’s spruce timber and oak flooring create a welcoming atmosphere. The redesigned upper floor houses a multifunctional auditorium accommodating lectures, exhibitions, and educational programs. Generous glazing on the ground floor integrates indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring a Pedrali outdoor collection showroom conceptualized by DWA Design Studio, showcasing the essence of woodcraft.

View of the pavilion's timber ceiling with natural light streaming through.

Discover another innovative use of wood in architecture with the Haotang Village carpentry hub, a blend of tradition and modernity.

Creating a Dialogue Between Nature and Design

Alecio Ferrari’s photographs, elegantly displayed on fabric backdrops, complement the Pavilion’s ambience, bridging natural and cultural themes. This interaction between design and nature enchants visitors, embodying AMDL CIRCLE’s humanistic approach.

People walking under the pavilion, highlighting its spacious interior.

A Continuous Experiment in Architectural Design

Michele De Lucchi describes the Pavilion’s creation as a journey of experimentation. “Today, everything is an experiment. We are in the midst of an ongoing process,” he explains, emphasizing the endless potential of design within this innovative structure.

Enhancing Spaces with Intuitive Landscape Design

The Pavilion’s new terrace and lush surroundings, crafted with Luserna stone paving and seasonal plantings, frame restful outdoor spaces. The Pedrali Path, a kilometer-long route, seamlessly connects the site to its environment.

Exterior view of the pavilion, featuring wooden arches and lush surroundings.

The project is a testament to enduring architectural innovation, harboring countless stories and possibilities within its wooden frames. It stands as an inspiring venue where contemporary design and pedagogy converge, sparking transformative dialogues in architecture.

Detail of interlocking timber beams forming part of the pavilion structure.
View from inside the pavilion showing the interconnected wooden beams.
Sunlight filtering through timber slats, creating patterns on the ground.
Interior of the pavilion with a focus on the wooden ceiling structure.
Wide shot of the pavilion highlighting its elegance and simplicity.
Visitors exploring the wooden interior of the pavilion during the day.
Close-up showing the craftsmanship of wooden beam connections.
Pavilion exterior with dynamic wooden structure against a blue sky.
Visitors seated beneath the timber arches of the pavilion.
Outdoor view showcasing the pavilion's structural elegance and scale.
Wide-angle of the pavilion displaying its grand timber framework.

Source: stylepark.com

Frequently asked questions

What materials are used in Michele De Lucchi’s pavilion?

The Pavilion is characterized by wood and stone, integrating seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Spruce timber and oak flooring are used inside, while a brass-clad timber roof enhances durability.

How does the pavilion demonstrate sustainability?

The Pavilion demonstrates sustainability by using recovered wooden shingles artfully repurposed by students and featuring photovoltaic panels and a geothermal energy plant.

What is the purpose of the Pavilion’s interior design?

The Pavilion’s interior is designed to foster warmth and versatility, with a multifunctional auditorium for lectures, exhibitions, and educational programs, and generous glazing on the ground floor integrating indoor and outdoor spaces.