Heliocell, we’ve been seeing a lot of impressive work coming out of workshops classes worldwide but this has to be one of the best. This pavilion completed by students at the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia (IAAC) is a temporary structure that moves and adjusts its location according to sun movement.
Courtesy of IAAC
The structure is made of rib like bent wood that incorporates solar panels into its skin. The IAAC explains the project, stating that, ‘It is a solar pavilion with the attribute of transforming its structure, so as to follow the sun path and get the maximum advantage of the solar radiation, to be captured by the solar panels incorporated on its skin.
Courtesy of IAAC
The ribs are held bent by tensile cables attached to sensor controlled winches which allow the wood to relax or pull the curvature tighter as the sun moves through the sky, maximizing solar reception.
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.