At the edge of eastern Portugal, overlooking the vast Hispano-Portuguese plateau and the Rio Erges gorges, a unique spherical installation stands amidst the rugged landscape. Designed by the Paris-based studio Atelier Yokyok, “Ninho Globo” is crafted from locally sourced black schist, creating a striking contrast against the sky and the windswept terrain of Salvaterra do Extremo. This small town, nestled in a rocky area bordering Spain, provides the perfect backdrop for this avant-garde structure.
Atelier Yokyok, a design studio founded by architects Samson Lacoste and Luc Pinsard, along with Laure Qaremy and Pauline Lazareff, drew inspiration from the natural surroundings and the concept of comfort and safety. Reminiscent of artist Andy Goldsworthy’s slate interventions, the spherical shape of “Ninho Globo” evokes images of a nest, a planet, or a giant seed pod blending seamlessly with the landscape.
Constructed on the site of a former pig farm, the installation integrates with the existing dry stone walls and natural granite base, creating a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity. Visitors are encouraged to step inside the sphere, offering a moment of reflection amidst the raw beauty of the material and the surrounding environment.
The choice of a sphere for the design symbolizes celestial bodies and a shared connection to the planet. It represents a balance between stability and movement, gravity, and equilibrium. The installation challenges conventional notions of shelter and invites contemplation on the responsible use of shared spaces for future generations.
The pavilion features a unique design element known as “The Canyon,” a deep, jagged space that mirrors the rugged landscape and adds a sense of tension to the structure. The open-ended nature of the installation raises questions about its purpose and longevity, prompting viewers to consider their impact on the environment and the legacy they leave behind.
Atelier Yokyok’s “Ninho Globo” invites viewers to engage with the landscape in a physical and spatial relationship, encouraging a deeper connection to the natural world. Through its innovative design and thought-provoking concept, the installation challenges perceptions of space, comfort, and sustainability, creating a dialogue between art, architecture, and the environment.
For more information and updates on Atelier Yokyok’s projects, visit their Instagram page.
