Garden Folly
This project transforms an unused 15’ x 50’ extension to a single family residential plot into a densely planted garden and personal library. Designed as a private and secluded retreat from daily life, the pavilion was conceptualized as an inhabitable piece of furniture bridging a lush and naturalistic landscape. Accessed by a separate entrance from the street, the existing ground plane was excavated to create a sunken path lined in local black granite providing acoustic separation and visual privacy from the neighboring city. Although physically separated from the client’s residence by a masonry wall, strategically placed openings allow for glimpse to the garden beyond. The structure, clad in thin strips of locally reclaimed wood, acts as a portal framing two contrasting scenarios, a dense “wild” garden and a grass amphitheater/ seating area. On special occasions, the seating can be cleared to create a small covered stage for family performances. Small niches line the walkway and are illuminated by diyas (small lamps) in the evening.
