Recently, the Mushroom Pavilion, designed by OMA partner Shohei Shigematsu, officially opened at the Fundación Casa Wabi in Puerto Escondido, Mexico. This structure serves as a new landmark for mushroom cultivation and community gathering.
This new exhibition pavilion not only focuses on mushroom cultivation but also serves as a significant social space within the coastal landscape of Casa Wabi, symbolizing OMA’s first physical establishment in Mexico. It is set in a lush 65-acre natural environment that overlooks the Oaxacan coast and mountains, harmoniously blending with nature.
The design of the Mushroom Pavilion features an oval shape that optimizes internal circulation and includes three distinct areas: a mushroom room, a cultivation room, and a storage room. This layout enables the space to fulfill dual functions of food cultivation and community interaction.
Structurally, the pavilion’s base resembles a tiered theater, with layered platforms showcasing handcrafted red pottery made by local artisans. This design not only facilitates the cultivation process but also offers a panoramic observation experience. A central skylight brings natural light into the space, while openings around the pavilion ensure good ventilation. Elevated platforms incorporate views of the surrounding sea and shrubland, enhancing the connection between the building and nature.
Regarding materials, the pavilion is primarily constructed from cast-in-place concrete, featuring stamped burlap that preserves moisture rich in iron content, allowing it to gradually rust over time and exhibit a layered texture. Its curved base reduces contact with the ground to protect local native plants, such as guayacan. As Shohei Shigematsu mentioned, this project aims to balance the specialized function of mushroom cultivation with a broader cultural mission, promoting community interaction and artistic exchange through architecture.
