Rising Moon Pavilion

Rising Moon Pavilion

Rising Moon Pavilion is an innovative architectural installation that exemplifies the intersection of cultural tradition, environmental consciousness, and contemporary design aesthetics. Created as a centerpiece attraction for the Mid-Autumn Festival, this remarkable structure stands as a testament to sustainable architectural practices, measuring approximately 10 meters in height and 20 meters in diameter. The pavilion's distinctive hemispheric design, comprising 148 triangular steel components interconnected with cable wires, creates a sophisticated geodesic dome structure that reimagines the traditional Chinese paper lantern on a monumental scale. The installation's most notable feature is its innovative use of approximately 7,000 recycled plastic bottles, including 4,848 5-gallon bottles and 2,300 1.5-liter bottles, each integrated with LED lighting systems to create dynamic visual effects. The structure, which sits atop a reflective pool, creates a complete spherical illusion through its reflection, capable of simulating various lunar phases through computer-controlled lighting sequences. The interior space, accommodating up to 100 visitors simultaneously, features suspended bottle lanterns that create an immersive experience while emphasizing the project's environmental message. This groundbreaking design, which earned the Platinum A' Design Award in the Architecture, Building and Structure Design category, successfully combines cultural symbolism, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability, demonstrating how temporary architectural installations can serve both as artistic expressions and powerful statements about resource conservation and recycling.

architectural installation, sustainable design, cultural heritage, environmental awareness, interactive lighting, public art

— Adam Dawson