A large-format forest terrace designed as a flexible summer gathering space, combining a wide-span structure with adaptable enclosure and custom-built elements.
Site
The project is located deep within a forest, surrounded by dense trees and natural terrain. The site has no access for construction machinery, which required all materials—including metal beams and structural components—to be transported and installed manually.
Client Brief
The client requested a summer-oriented space for social activities, dining, and relaxation. The terrace needed to function as an open pavilion while also offering protection from weather and the possibility of partial enclosure. The program included two integrated storage spaces and a large, unobstructed central area.
Constraints
The main challenges were the remote forest location, the absence of machine access, and the requirement for a wide-span structure. All construction processes had to be planned for manual assembly while maintaining structural clarity and durability.
Form and Function
The terrace is organized as a single, large-format structure with a clear span of 33 feet between the main columns, creating an open interior without visual obstructions. The roof rises to approximately 12.5 feet, providing shelter while maintaining a lightweight profile. Two storage volumes are integrated into the overall composition without interrupting the primary gathering space.
Materials and Construction
The structure combines metal beams, wooden posts, vertical wooden partitions, and a brick wall to balance strength, warmth, and permanence. Custom metal sliding doors were designed specifically for the wide opening, allowing smooth operation along reinforced tracks. These elements enable the terrace to shift between fully open and semi-enclosed configurations. All materials were delivered and assembled by hand due to site limitations.