The Diwan Pavillion
Edmonton, Canada
2018 – 22
Edmonton, (AB) Canada
Project start: 2018
Construction Start: 2021
Completion due: 2022
Status: Completed
Gross floor area: 695m²
Client: University of Alberta
Architect: AXIA Design Associates
Project team: Taymoore Balbaa, Chris Wong, Michael Good, Leisdania Reynoso, Justine Houseley
Executive Architect: Kasian Architecture, Interior Design and Planning
Structural engineer: RJC Engineering
MEP engineer: Williams Engineering
Landscape: Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects
Architecture and Interior Design: Arriz + Co.
Visualization: Norm Li
In the Aga Khan Garden Pavilion Design Competition, AXIA’s winning proposal provided the basis for what would become the Diwan: a year-round event space building for the University of Alberta Botanic Gardens and the final piece to complete the 4.8-hectare Aga Khan Garden. It is a facility for concerts, performances, lectures, conferences, workshops, exhibitions, and weddings. As well, it is a space for learning, meetings, cultural exchange, and celebration. Winner of the International Architectural Awards (Exposition Centres) and the INT. Design Grands Prix du Design (gold), the building is designed to complement the spirit and experience of the Islamic Garden’s strong cultural heritage. Axiality, geometry and hierarchy feature prominently in the gardens and are echoed throughout the pavilion, which are seen as an aggregate of interior and exterior spaces contained within a harmonious whole.
Perforated metal screens and milled fiber-cement panels accent the structure, while striking a fine balance between porosity and structural integrity. They define spatial boundaries and create a wash of diffuse daylight, as the raised podium, prominent cantilever, and amply glazed ground floor allow the upper volume to seemingly float, establishing visual continuity to the gardens beyond. The muted colour tones of the building let the natural texture of the garden’s ecology animate the interior spaces, especially the multipurpose event hall.
The proportions, scale and materials of the event hall are carefully calibrated both acoustically and atmospherically, in order to adapt to the various functions of the Diwan. Geometric motifs that characterize its Islamic heritage are carried from the exterior to the interior wall finishes and floor treatments, giving it an additional level of tactility and texture. A central stage with a decorative backdrop and coved ceiling become the final terminus and visual focus for visitors.
