Growth Pavilion + Coffee Shop

Deriving from a studio focused on the future of biomaterials in our built environments, the Growth Pavilion and Coffee Shop is a unique structure located atop a hill in Magnuson Park, Seattle. This project is constructed entirely from biomaterials, including bioreceptive concrete, coffee grounds composite, and seaweed bioplastics. Conceptually, the pavilion appears to grow organically from the earth, blending seamlessly with the landscape and revealing the hidden layers beneath. The program features a pavilion that serves as an exhibition space, allowing visitors to experience the use of biomaterials firsthand, alongside a small-scale coffee stand integrated into one of the pavilion's large pillars. Drawing inspiration from natural patterns and forms such as ocean swell lines, sand ripples, and cracked desert grounds, this project explores the possibilities of biomaterials in architecture, creating a harmonious and sustainable environment.

Biomaterial Selection

Bioreceptive Concrete

A porous concrete mix allowing for the growth of moss and other flora within its surface is used as the casted material for the pavilion's shell. This living material will allow for the structure to blend with its site as greenery grows over its surface.

Coffee Grounds Composite

Floor plates are fabricated by combining recycled coffee grounds with resin to produce a solid material, which is then CNC cut into the desired shape. The design of this project's flooring is inspired by the natural polygonal patterns found on valley floors, such as those in Death Valley, California.

Seaweed Bioplastic

By extracting polymers from raw seaweed and blending them with plasticizers, a uniquely colored natural material is created. These seaweed bioplastics drape over some of the pavilion's skylight openings, replacing traditional glazing and providing colored light filtration.

Mood Board

Process: Form + Surface

Inspired by ocean swells and wind-shaped sand ripples, the pavilion’s form evolved through an iterative process refining texture, structure, and light. Skylight openings nest within its undulating surface as subtle ripples grow into sweeping curves that mirror the ocean’s movement and create public seating where the site and structure meet.

This supplemental experiment focused on creating innovative material samples as alternatives to traditional concrete mixes. Samples are designed with patterns and undulations to create pockets for moss and other flora to grow. Utilizing eggshells as an alternative aggregate, samples were made using a mixture of eggshell powder, sodium alginate, and water, showcasing the potential for sustainable and nature-integrated construction materials.