# Desai Chia Architecture Completes Chatham Pond Wildlife Pavilion A nature-viewing structure inspired by water ripples integrates sustainable materials and solar energy. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-10-20 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/abcfad53-bf39-49ee-b5a4-d82a6801a134 ## Project Context and Location The Chatham Pond Pavilion is situated on an 80-acre private property in rural New York. Designed by Desai Chia Architecture, this structure serves as a wildlife-viewing station. It overlooks a spring-fed pond that was previously used for agricultural livestock watering but has since been remediated into a thriving natural wetland habitat. ## Design Concept and Geometry The pavilion features a unique plan shaped like the number eight, consisting of two platforms at varying heights. The architecture is defined by three intersecting, hollowed-out cylinders. This sculptural form was directly inspired by the concentric ripples created when raindrops fall onto the surface of the pond, blending geometry with natural phenomena. ## Structural Engineering Approach To protect the local ecosystem, the 380-square-foot structure is elevated above the ground to minimize habitat disruption. The frame is constructed using galvanized steel columns and curved steel beams, which were assembled on-site. This elevated design allows visitors to observe wetland creatures, including birds, fish, and pollinators, without disturbing the delicate pond environment. ## Materiality and Sustainability The canopy is clad in standing-seam panels manufactured from 98 percent recycled aluminum. The exterior surfaces feature a luminous satin grey finish designed to reflect the surrounding forest and sky. Conversely, the interior is coated in a copper finish, which creates a warm, inviting glow for those using the viewing platforms during their visit. ## Solar Integration and Energy Sustainability is further integrated through a photovoltaic array mounted atop the roof of one cylinder. This system powers a ceiling fan located within the pavilion, enhancing comfort for visitors. By utilizing solar energy, the project maintains a low operational footprint while providing a functional space for observing bears, foxes, and other local wildlife. ## Strategic Site Positioning Located on the southwest corner of the pond, the pavilion is positioned to maximize natural shading during the afternoon hours. This placement also optimizes sightlines at dusk, when the setting sun illuminates the forest canopy to the east. The design team prioritized these specific angles to capture dramatic views of the illuminated understorey. ## Broader Architectural Portfolio Desai Chia Architecture has a history of developing multiple structures on this specific 80-acre site. Previous projects completed by the firm for the same clients include a main house, a guest dwelling, a livestock barn, and a large greenhouse. This pavilion represents the latest addition to their cohesive, multi-structure master plan for the property. ## Ecological Impact and Legacy The pavilion serves as a critical interface between human observation and restored natural ecosystems. By transforming a former agricultural watering hole into a protected wetland haven, the project demonstrates how architectural interventions can support biodiversity. It provides a permanent, low-impact vantage point for monitoring the diverse species that have returned to the area. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/10/20/wildlife-pavilion-desai-chia-architecture-new-york/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._