Masterstudio: The Architect changemaker Semester 1

Giorgia Ceccacci

While researching on local fibers in the area of the old Tannery, the hemp plant caught my attention for its benefits as a crop and its expanding production in Belgium, appearing as a promising and efficient material to research on.

The research on the hemp plant’s technical abilities and my goal of maximizing the use of the plant in its wholeness, merged into the concept of a watchtower pavilion, which invites the visitor to trust the material’s abilities to have a challenging experience reaching a panoramic top.

The structure is completely made from hemp stalks clusters, tied together with hemp twine, gradually rising. Steps are tucked into the structure and reassured by more twine. The final compression strength is guaranteed by the connections between clusters and ropes around the whole tower.

The structure can be completely unbuilt in the same way as it’s been built and potentially the elements could go back to Nature without leaving any non-recyclable waste.

The pavilion appears as an extreme and direct experience of the plant in its wholeness. It integrates into the existing building, without affecting it. It shows an innovative and experimental application of the material. The visitor is asked to give trust, following the handrail to climb to the top, where he or she can sit and enjoy the view.

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Masterstudio: The Architect changemaker Semester 1

Giorgia Ceccacci