Temporary Pavilion in India Built with Reclaimed Materials
Hyderabad's event space showcases sustainable architecture using local construction waste.
1Pioneer of Sustainable Design
The Reclaimed Pavilion in Hyderabad's rapidly developing area was designed by Kanan Modi Associates using materials salvaged from local construction sites. Covering 1,500 square meters, the pavilion includes event spaces and a show home. The design team prioritized sustainability by asking 'what can we reuse' at every decision point. Gabion walls, bricks made from excavated earth, and repurposed corrugated metal sheets were utilized throughout the structure.
2Architectural Details
A grid framework made of repurposed scaffolding, painted deep red, surrounds the pavilion and supports zigzagging jute fabric canopies. The center features a brick-paved reception area with a sunken seating pit. Three main spaces are divided by large gabion walls constructed from construction debris. These walls extend beyond the pavilion's boundaries to shade and separate exterior areas.
3Flexible Spaces
The pavilion consists of open gathering areas, shaded seating zones, and flexible event spaces clustered around a central water feature. This layout accommodates diverse uses from art exhibitions to community events. The southwestern edge features a stepped steel deck and shallow L-shaped pool, while the north has a more enclosed plaza sheltered by scaffolding canopies.
4Material Reuse Strategy
Kanan Modi explains, 'We asked how to reuse existing materials rather than adding new ones.' The pavilion's eventual dismantling was planned during design: scaffolding will return to construction use, metal sheets will be recycled, and earth blocks will become fill material. This approach demonstrates circular economy potential in construction.
5Water and Light Features
Above the pools, a grid of pale concrete stepping stones echoes the scaffolding framework. Cast in-situ in an irregular checkerboard pattern, these stones add unique aesthetic value. At the west end, the show flat occupies a white volume framed by the scaffolding structure, separated from main spaces.
6Local Collaboration
Commissioned by real estate firm Jayabheri Group for The Pinnacle apartment block, the pavilion serves as both sales office and community venue. It exemplifies the potential of temporary structures amid Hyderabad's rapid urban transformation. The project reflects growing interest in sustainable urban development solutions.
7Other Indian Examples
India hosts other projects reusing construction waste. Design practice Multitude of Sins built their Bengaluru studio using scrap metal, acrylic sheets, chains, and even doorknobs. Such initiatives indicate the growth of sustainable design movements across the country, pushing boundaries of material innovation.
8New Architectural Paradigm
The Reclaimed Pavilion proves temporary structures can have lasting impact. Combining material efficiency, community interaction and aesthetic consideration, it offers sustainable alternatives for urban development. The project makes circular design principles tangible for architects and developers, setting precedent for future projects.