Piertzovanis Toews builds reversible timber pavilion in Swiss meadow

In Nuglar-St. Pantaleon, Switzerland, architecture firm Piertzovanis Toews has completed the Pavilion of Sliding Doors, a reversible timber structure initiated by an open letter from young residents requesting a sheltered gathering space. Developed through a participatory process involving locals, stakeholders, and the youth authors, the lightweight pavilion sits on screwed foundations that can be removed without altering the meadow. Sliding timber panels allow the space to shift between enclosed and open configurations, functioning as a lounge, concert stage, or semi-open theater. Translucent glazing filters daylight, creating changing patterns of light and shadow. The project minimized its ecological footprint by sourcing timber from nearby forests, reusing donated trapezoidal metal sheets and curtains, and obtaining polycarbonate panels and paint at reduced costs. Contractors contributed labor, and residents painted timber elements and built stools without glue or screws. The pavilion has no insulation or electricity, offering flexible use for music, celebrations, informal meetings, or quiet retreats. Photographs by Federico Farinatti document the structure.