TIMBER PAVILION COMMUNITY HUB

London architect studio, Bell Phillips has designed The Tree House, a centrepiece pavilion, in Elephant Park. A series of developments are underway in the two-acre green space that is managed by developer Lendlease. With a brief for a community space with an adjoining café, toilets and a multipurpose room for events and gatherings, the Tree House ticks all the boxes of a lush gathering space where the community can relax in nature.

Not only a social hub, The Tree House forms a gateway into Elephant Park from Sayer Street. Landscape architect Gillespies designed the surrounding environment of the pavilion with an abundance of plant life, paths and mature trees.

Constructed from cross laminated timber, finished with timber cladding and bamboo decking, The Tree House creates a seamless flow between the pavilion and nature. With a main design purpose to blend into its surroundings and allow for indoor and outdoor transitions from any area of the pavilion.

Make your way up onto the roof terrace viewing deck via the two staircases in the middle of the structure. Constructed from lightweight metal balustrading, the angular railing is to reflect the branches of the trees surrounding. Up and into the trees, the viewing deck is a perfect place to get a breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of London city.

An 18 square metre café kiosk is also a part of The Tree House. Additional benches and seating around the pavilion make The Tree House a great social hub to grab a coffee with work friends during lunch breaks.

The Tree House is a sustainable, natural pavilion for the south London community to enjoy. With opportunities to hold events at the pavilion, relax under the treetops, or enjoy a day out in the park, The Tree House is a perfect pocket of fresh air in an urban green space.

Photography Kilian O'Sullivan via Dezeen