The Open Ocean Pavilion is a portable outdoor venue design that is inspired by the expansive space of the open ocean.
Designed by Kyle Chen during the UBC SALA “Designing for Behavior Program”, this pavilion was created to open up venue spaces on the move. With every part able to collapse and fold down, the whole structure can be transported in a U-Haul truck.
The roof of the pavilion is inspired by motion of waves, where cracks of sunlight are able to seep through, allowing a rippling lighting effect. Chen also designed this space where there are no obstructing walls or pillars within the venue space. This design choice was to mimic the “No Barriers” feeling of the open ocean. The said pillars that lifts the pavilion up are inspired by sea grass. Sea grass to an ocean is as important as trees are for land, where they provide oxygen. In the Open Ocean Pavilion, the sea grass inspired side pillars highlights the importance of sea grass, and also allows a rhythmic column, supporting the two sides of the pavilion.
Medium: Paper, Foam, & Wood
Date of completion: July 25, 2025
Location: UBC SALA
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