The Orchid Pavilion, designed for the Casa Wabi Foundation, is a wooden structure that is permanent, sustainable and lightweight. It is dedicated to the conservation of orchids in the Oaxaca region of Mexico, celebrating the strong interplay between the biological and cultural diversity of the landscape.

Casa Wabi is a not-for-profit organisation that fosters dialogue between contemporary art and local communities across its locations in Mexico City and Tokyo. Rooted in the Japanese philosophy of Wabi-Sabi, the foundation’s mission is to promote social development through art via five core programmes: residencies, exhibitions, pottery, film and a mobile library.

The design team of an architectural firm researched the necessities for creating optimal conditions for orchids to thrive: a humid, partially shaded and well-ventilated environment. This led to the development of clear technical features that ensure the pavilion’s functionality. The design prioritises three main elements:

• Functional simplicity: 12 concrete-based humidifiers, utilizing gravity, create a controlled humid environment ideal for orchids from the Oaxacan coast. This system ensures the orchids thrive without manual watering.
• Sustainable materials: Locally sourced wood and custom-made concrete ceramic pieces, fired in high-temperature kilns, form the structure. These materials echo the vernacular traditions of the region, while adhering to sustainable practices.
• A sanctuary for reflection: Beyond its technical role, the pavilion aims to evoke a profound sense of Ikigai in its visitors. Entering the space, one breathes in the humidity, hears the gentle drops of water, and feels the crossing winds.

The central element supporting orchid growth is the carefully maintained humid environment. Pyramid-shaped, water-filled concrete basins crown the wooden structure, releasing tiny droplets that drip to the ground, where they are collected by permanently humid concrete trays.

This process not only sustains the orchids, it also eliminates the need for manual irrigation. The breeze and warmth allow the plants to absorb moisture directly from the air and surfaces, mimicking their natural habitat.