KlimaKover
Salvaged cedar created the basis for Henning Larsen’s rapidly deployable cooling system that was featured in the 2025 Climate Piloting Program on Governors Island.
The cloud-like pavilion is an environmentally friendly answer to the need for affordable cooling, especially in public spaces. KlimaKover is a closed loop solar powered system that is supported by a framework of fire salvaged cedar provided by Cambium Carbon. Sitting on top of a concrete base, the cooling system circulates chilled water through a series of microtubes within transparent radiant panels while fabric sails provide shade within the open-air conditions of the structure.
In order to accommodate an efficient installation, SITU worked within the engineering parameters outlined by FAST+EPP, and defined two main pre-fabricated truss types to be brought to site and attached to the columns. Wood joinery and off-the-shelf hardware streamlined the installation process allowing the primary structure to be assembled on site in a day.
Due to the nature of the modular wood members and joinery, KlimaKover can be scaled in size to fit a variety of sites and contexts. Additionally, since the structure is made from reclaimed materials and typical hardware, it serves as a prototype for large-scale use around the city.
Architect
Henning Larson, UPenn
Engineer
FAST+EPP
General Contractor
Skanska
Material Supplier
Cambium Carbon
Location
Governors Island, NY
Completion
2025
Photography
Hanzhong Luo, Chris Perez, Kabir Sahni
