SALA Architects, Inc.
Photographs by Peter Bastianeli-Kerze.

Pine/Cone

Minnesota Landscape Arboretum,
Chaska, Minnesota

Set within a stand of pine trees, Pine/Cone is a simple wooden vessel beckoning visitors to explore. As one approaches Pine/Cone defined pathways are absent. Instead a uniform carpet of pine needles allows each visitor to define their own course through and among the trees toward the mysterious floating box. Drawing closer, entries appear on opposite sides of the box and lead to the discovery of a surprising, yet contemplative space hidden within.

The Arboretum exhibit theme “Human/Nature” required submissions to explore the relationships between natural environments and people’s response to, and understanding of, those environments. Through built-form, Pine/Cone explores our connection with nature by contrasting natural and human-made elements (pine trees and milled lumber), by framing views of nature through various apertures (doorways, ceiling, and reflecting basin), and by encouraging visitors to sit, linger and meditate within a comfortable, quiet space.

Designed by David O’Brien Wagner.
Built by Mike Otto Construction and SALA Architects.

Awards

Publications

Printable Project PDF.