As the official botanical garden of the State of Tennessee the Gardens at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture occupy an important place on the University’s campus.  The gardens solicited designer qualifications for a new pavilion which would serve as a multi-use facility for a number of events which take place within the garden.  While the original brief requested the site adaptation of a vendor-provided pre-engineered structure, the design team presented a more site specific and place appropriate solution which was ultimately approved.

In order to keep the focus on the plantings within the garden, a solution which limits the profile and visual impact of the 60’ long structure was proposed.  4 central piers anchor the structure and provide a base for the low-slope butterfly roof which sets a horizontal datum underneath the canopy of two rows of mature oak trees.  This roof directs rainwater to a 500 gallon cistern which provides irrigation for plantings while serving as an educational opportunity for students and Garden visitors.  The 4 central piers are clad in native crab orchard stone. The roof structure is composed of layers natural fir timbers and purlins supported by a galvanized steel structural system.  The materials palette is reflective of some of the materials already found within the research campus and complementary to materials and plantings found within the garden.

Now complete, the pavilion provides a fitting setting for educational and cultural events while also serving as a much needed revenue source funding research and community outreach initiatives which are at the core of the mission of the UT Gardens.