Architecture studio Pezo von Ellrichshausen has constructed a striking concrete structure in central Chile that resembles an ancient temple but serves the practical purpose of storing beekeeping equipment. The pavilion, named Miel (Spanish for honey), was built in a forest clearing in Yungay on a 130-hectare rural property owned by the studio's founders, Mauricio Pezo and Sofia von Ellrichshausen.
The 36-square-meter building provides von Ellrichshausen, who recently took up beekeeping, with dedicated space to store her protective suit and equipment. The structure's front facade creates a monumental appearance with its temple-like design, featuring a decorative frieze and a pair of pilasters that frame the entrance. Above the door, the Spanish phrase "Ni mas ni menos" (meaning "no more, no less") is carved into the concrete surface.
From the rear, the building presents a completely different character, resembling a stepped staircase rather than a temple. The stepped roof design gives the structure a distinctive triangular profile and allows visitors to climb up onto the roof. According to the architects, "The concentrated and directionless footprint acquires an axial sense, explicitly asymmetrical, with one high side perhaps completing an imaginary cube, and its opposite side with no elevation at all."
Despite its appearance of being assembled from individual concrete blocks, the entire structure was cast in place using an innovative construction method. The concrete was poured in 60-centimeter layers, with each layer forming two steps of the staircase-like design. Inside the pavilion, a mural composed of fine white lines creates the silhouette of a simple hut, while a 45-degree oculus window provides dynamic lighting conditions that change throughout the day.
Miel represents the fourth structure that the couple has built on their Andean foothills property. The first was Luna, which serves as the architects' primary residence while also hosting workshop facilities, galleries, and artist residences. They subsequently added Lama and Rosa, two pavilions designed to offer different ways of experiencing the surrounding landscape. "We wanted to create a series of little pavilions that overcome a functional need, becoming mini sculptures," von Ellrichshausen explained.
The pavilion serves multiple purposes beyond its primary function as equipment storage. "Miel serves a purpose but also has another dimension," von Ellrichshausen noted. "Even if it's closed, you're able to climb on the roof and sit among the foliage of beautiful native trees, which is this forest we're trying to protect." The beehives are located in close proximity to the pavilion, allowing von Ellrichshausen to produce her own honey from the property.
Von Ellrichshausen discovered her passion for beekeeping during the COVID-19 pandemic and describes it as a magical experience. "It's a magic little place where you can bottle the beauties of this property and eat them!" she enthusiastically shared. The architects moved to Yungay after spending more than a decade living in their self-designed Casa Cien in Concepcion.
The long-term vision for the property extends beyond personal use, as Pezo and von Ellrichshausen plan to transform the entire 130-hectare site into a cultural center and nature reserve. This ambitious project will be managed by their foundation, Fundación Artificial, combining their commitment to architecture, art, and environmental conservation in the Chilean countryside.
