Hou de Sousa's Colourful Dome-like Pavilion Decorates Arkansas

New York-based studio Hou de Sousa introduces Bubble, a public pavilion located in Bentonville, Arkansas that is part of the growing Quilt of Parks-a network connecting Crystal Bridges Museum, 21c Museum Hotel, and Bentonville City Square. Inspired by the cultural and architectural patchwork of the region, it adapts local origin stories into a multifunctional structure. From a distance, the Bubble resembles a colourful blanket floating in the air like a hot air balloon. 

Bubble by Hou de Sousa (cr: Hou De Sousa)

Bubble by Hou de Sousa (cr: Hou De Sousa)

The pavilion's polygonal framework references Ozark rock outcroppings and echoes the geometry of the surrounding park's overall landscape. The construction of Hou de Sousa's pavilion uses 54 unique bolted modules that form a dome reminiscent of American architect Buckminster Fuller's Fly's Eye Dome and architect Moshe Safdie's iconic skylight work Crystal Bridges Museum. 

It is located in Bentonville's Lawrence Plaza, a popular public space that features a playful fountain. Bubble by Hou de Sousa studio provides visitors with colourful shade, seating, and resting areas that are accessible to the public. More than 800 radially arranged steel fins create a transparent shell that casts light and shadow. The portals frame the surrounding urban landscape including the Crystal Bridges Museum and the 21c Museum Hotel, attracting and inviting passers-by to drop inside to experience the interplay of light and colour. The pavilion is part of the broader Quit of Parks initiative, adding to Bentonville's cultural landscape while also creating a cheerful gathering place for the community. 

Bubble by Hou de Sousa (cr: Hou De Sousa)

Bubble by Hou de Sousa (cr: Hou De Sousa)

Bubble by Hou de Sousa (cr: Hou De Sousa)