A sixty-foot walkway. That’s what leads you to the Pavilion in the Trees. It’s a journey. A climb. Not a steep climb like the original plans. No. Artist Martin Puryear changed that for safety. He envisioned a gentle ascent a smooth transition into the treetops.
The Pavilion in the Trees in Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park isn’t just a pavilion. It’s an experience. Imagine a tree house. A childhood dream realized on a grand scale. That’s the inspiration. Puryear wanted to capture that universal longing that feeling of being nestled high among the branches. He succeeded.
Conceived in 1981 it took years to materialize. The project needed support. The Pew Charitable Trusts the National Endowment for the Arts and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts all contributed. They believed in Puryear’s vision. They believed in the power of this elevated sanctuary.
The Pavilion in the Trees opened in 1993. It’s made of western red cedar heart white oak and heart redwood. These woods were chosen for their durability. For their ability to withstand the elements. They are designed to last. Yet even durable wood needs care.
Sadly in late 2017 a storm caused severe damage. A tree fell. The sixty-foot walkway was broken. But the Pavilion in the Trees didn’t stay closed for long. A conservation team worked tirelessly. They rebuilt the walkway. They replaced damaged wood. They sprayed it with a protective coating. The Pavilion in the Trees reopened. It’s ready for visitors once more.
The square deck is twenty-four feet above the ground. The latticed canopy provides shade. There is a feeling of calm. A sense of peace. It’s a much-favored spot for contemplation. For simply being present. For enjoying nature’s beauty from a unique perspective.
This is more than just art. It’s an investment in the public good. It’s a place where people can reconnect with nature. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration. The artist architect conservators and funders all played a part. They all helped create this special space this elevated haven within the urban landscape. The Pavilion in the Trees. A testament to a dream. A place of peace. A place to remember.