Ontario Pavilion for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics

Vancouver, BC

The Ontario Pavilion for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games translated an impression of one of the province’s most recognizable landmarks, Niagara Falls, into a light, shimmering temporary exhibition space. The pavilion exterior was constructed from an array of uplit, fabric-wrapped panels and curtains of cable rope, integrated with medium-resolution digitized LED array walls capable of displaying large-scale panoramic video. This dynamic surface evoked the energetic flow and misting of water.

The interior of the 14,600-square-foot structure was designed to be completely flexible and adaptable for all activities. Marking Ontario’s leadership in sustainable design and innovation, the pavilion showcased energy and water efficiency. Great care was taken to ensure a minimal ecological footprint, while the pavilion materials were lightweight, recyclable, low-energy, easily transportable, and repurposed once the Games concluded.

Project Facts
Client
Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport
Location
Vancouver, BC
Status
Completed 2010
Size
14,600 sq. ft.
Partner
Siamak Hariri
Project
Team
Lord Cultural Resources
Selected Awards

2011 – Ontario Association of Architects, Design Excellence Award

2010 – Design Exchange, Gold Medal, Temporary Interior Design

2010 – Canadian Institute of Steel Construction, CISD Innovation Award

The tensioned cords were arranged in vertical rows that enclosed the temporary structure, creating an elegant and visually engaging screen that drastically transformed from day to night.

Evocative, light, shimmering, and seductive, the pavilion provided a unique impression of Ontario’s lively character. With an exterior translucent screen projecting varying degrees of visibility, the structure was designed to come alive, changing with different light and mood.