Pulp Paper Inspires at the Coachella Music Festival

Demonstrating the structural and design potential of recycled paper pulp, Los Angeles based architects Ball-Nogues recently constructed this experimental pavilion for the 2015 Coachella Music Festival.

Light and self supporting, the so-called ‘Pulp Pavilion’ is made out of structural lattices of organic jute rope that are then sprayed with a mixture of paper pulp, water, pigment as adhesive. The dry desert surroundings provide a perfect environment for a fast curing process, with the mixture hardening and strengthening the frame during the curing process. In total, around 10 to 12 layers of the mixture were spray applied to the ropes.

Ball-Nogues believe the Pulp Pavilion is the first architectural application of this type of material and process and could offer potential particularly for temporary buildings because of costs, availability of materials, structural efficiency and aesthetics.

After serving its purpose as a refuge for those attending the festival, it is intended that the pavilion will be composted or recycled.

Photos are by Joshua White Photography.