National Office of Forests of Versailles – A Harmonious Forest-Inspired Pavilion by Atelier Delalande Tabourin

Contextual Design Beside Versailles Forest

Positioned alongside a railway line, the existing building of the National Office of Forests of Versailles (ONF) serves as the gateway to the state-owned forest. Atelier Delalande Tabourin approached this project with a vision to extend the existing office building through a modest yet compelling pavilion that resonates with the surrounding forest.

The design strategy emphasizes volumetric clarity and natural materiality, reflecting the diverse functions of the ONF while creating a workplace that doubles as a spatial and landscaped experience. Visitors—whether collaborators or casual strollers—are invited to explore the pavilion as an immersive journey, where each corner celebrates the expertise of foresters.

Architecture Inspired by Nature

The pavilion’s form evokes a wooden sculpture delicately balanced upon timber blocks, symbolizing harmony between nature and built form. Its prominent roof rises visibly from forest paths, establishing the building as a landmark within the landscape. The structure maintains a dialogue with the existing building while accentuating the morphology of the surrounding forest.

Internally, the pavilion guides users through spaces composed entirely of wood. Corridors frame views of the forest outside, with carefully orchestrated voids and masses directing circulation. The spatial organization differentiates served and serving areas, creating an intuitive flow through functional office spaces.

Sustainable Materiality and Craftsmanship

All wood used for the roof and façade originates from the Versailles state-owned forest, managed by the ONF. Logs were processed locally, allowing for thin chestnut wood slats and precise craftsmanship. A seven-month drying cycle ensured material longevity and stability.

The interior furnishings and signage are custom-made in wood, drawing inspiration from traditional woodcutter markings, seamlessly integrating craftsmanship with architectural identity. This approach creates a cohesive environment where material authenticity is at the forefront.

Climate-Responsive Design

The pavilion is designed for optimal environmental performance:

• Recessed positioning and an expansive wooden roof cap naturally protect offices from summer heat.
• Millstone walls retain coolness and enhance thermal comfort.
• High-performance biosourced insulation combined with natural cross-ventilation eliminates the need for artificial climate control.
• During winter, a biomass heating system ensures reliable warmth throughout the building.

Through these strategies, the pavilion achieves a sustainable, low-impact architecture that celebrates the forest context while prioritizing human comfort.

A Landmark of Forest Architecture

The National Office of Forests of Versailles pavilion exemplifies the seamless integration of architecture, craftsmanship, and natural landscape. By using locally sourced timber, sustainable construction methods, and sensitive volumetry, Atelier Delalande Tabourin created a workspace that inspires curiosity and connects deeply with its environment.

All photographs are works of Maxime Delvaux