The Pavilion at Little Lake is inspired by the agricultural and industrial buildings of the San Joaquin Valley. Reflecting the simple, durable sheds found throughout the region, the building’s exterior form is clad with painted, corrugated aluminum. Where views and light are desired, the corrugated metal is perforated and detached, providing diffused interior daylight and visual interest when looking out to the landscape. At night, the screening allows the interior lighting to emanate, drawing the campus community to the building by highlighting the activity within.

Once inside, an open volume provides an uplifting, generously daylit space flexibly designed to meet the evolving needs of the campus. Filled with movable, free-standing furniture, the seating area can transform over the course of a week or day—from community dining to lectures, dances, and concerts. Fixed window counters offer views to the exterior landscape, while full-height glazing on the south façade connects the interiors to an outdoor patio, which provides additional dining space protected from the elements via a large roof canopy.

Interior sightlines from dining areas to the kitchen—defined by a vibrant orange wall—allow for unobstructed views into the production space. This seamless transition from dining to servery to kitchen encourages observation and promotes culinary education. A clerestory located between the main dining area and the kitchen washes the back-of-house with daylight, offering warmth and signaling the passage of time throughout the day.

The Pavilion at Little Lake provides a space for gathering, respite, and reinvigoration. The 24/7 nature of the facility makes it a true campus heart, and by providing students and faculty a reason to stay on campus, it will strengthen the sense of community at UC Merced.

Photography: Bruce Damonte