The NUST Lake, though once a cherished corner of the campus, had gradually lost its appeal as a gathering spot, becoming a backdrop rather than a destination. “Rejuvenating the Lake” addresses this very issue through a pavilion design that reintroduces life to this overlooked space. With an integrated art installation at its core, the pavilion encourages students and visitors to slow down, gather, and appreciate the scenic surroundings of the lake. Drawing from the globally recognized impact of colour and nature on human well-being, the design promotes an intimate interaction between architecture and environment. A vibrant colour palette—featuring reds, yellows, greens, and purples—forms the emotional language of the space. While red and yellow invite excitement and energy, green and purple offer calm and reflection. This thoughtful blend creates an emotional spectrum that resonates with different users, inviting both playfulness and peace.

A key feature of the design is its dynamic relationship with light. During the day, sunlight passing through the coloured panels casts shifting shadows that change with time. At night, artificial lights along the columns recreate this magic, bathing the structure in warm, inviting hues. The architecture isn’t just seen—it’s felt, experienced, and remembered. As one approaches, a curated pathway framed by aligned columns gradually reveals the pavilion. This unfolding journey contrasts with contemporary shortcuts, encouraging people to engage more deeply with their surroundings. The columns not only enhance anticipation but also echo the pavilion’s visual language, heightening the sensory experience. Structurally, the panels are supported by four strong aluminum-steel columns, lifting the form off the ground and symbolically removing it from urban noise. Its semi-enclosed design ensures connection with nature remains uninterrupted. In a world overwhelmed by stress and social media, this space becomes a much-needed pause—a vibrant and photogenic sanctuary for reflection, interaction, and joy.