Xylopolis Centre for Wood Art and Science: An Architectural Reflection on the Human-Nature Relationship

In response to the ecological and social challenges of the future, WXCA architects envisioned a design imbued with a belief in human wisdom and the potential for rational, responsible resource management for the Xylopolis Centre for Wood Art and Science in Wasilków, Poland.

This philosophy is rooted in the multi-generational traditions and history of Podlasie’s wooden culture, as well as the region’s cutting-edge wood construction technologies. Thus, this reflection is expressed not only symbolically but also through specific formal and technological proposals. The architectural concept for the Xylopolis headquarters draws inspiration from WXCA’s design for the Polish Pavilion at Expo 2020 in Dubai, where the original exhibition of the Xylopolis Centre for Wood Art and Science was showcased. This internationally-acclaimed project also delves into the synergy between tradition and modernity, embodying the idea of sustainable development in harmony with nature. Similarly to the Expo 2020 project, the Xylopolis Pavilion features an upward-expanding, modular structure framed by a kinetic installation depicting a flock of birds in flight – a metaphor for mobility, dynamic global changes and the flow of information and knowledge.

The architects opted for techniques that highlight the aesthetic qualities of wood, the primary construction and finishing material for the pavilion. Wooden claddings with varied textures and movable facade elements will create an interactive spatial installation powered by air movement and the play of light and shadow throughout the day and year, showcasing the multifaceted role of natural phenomena in creating a sense of comfort and harmony. In this way, the pavilion itself will become an exhibit in the landscape, an immersive setting for Xylopolis’ activities and the living praxis of Podlasie culture.

Thanks to ecological technologies, it will exemplify the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. The project incorporates comprehensive and multifaceted analyses aimed at minimising the embodied carbon footprint throughout the lifecycle of the building and its components, primarily through the use of wood supplemented with low-emission materials (low-emission steel and concrete). The wooden and modular orthogonal structure allows for the prefabrication of elements (walls and external and internal finishes), thus reducing onsite construction work. A significant emphasis has been placed on spatial flexibility to minimise potential future waste generation.

The Xylopolis Centre for Wood Art and Science also features a unique garden spanning over four hectares. The landscape design reflects the centre’s founding principles, integrating natural elements with modern technologies. The project maximises the use of the natural terrain and includes solutions such as the selection of local, resilient plants that require low energy and water inputs while supporting natural retention (dry stream systems and a retention pond). Additionally, the area is equipped with energy-efficient retention, infiltration and lighting systems, alongside various engineering solutions that promote efficient and sustainable resource management, making it resilient to current and future climate changes, including droughts, strong winds, rainfall and fires.