KlimaKover — Joshua Chiang

Developed in partnership with Henning Larsen and the Thermal Architecture Lab at the University of Pennsylvania, KlimaKover offers a low-energy solution to the intensifying and often unbearable heat of global climate change. This scale prototype demonstrates the simplicity of its modular system: A 4’ by 4’ structure that provides cooling and comfort while resisting condensation. The fabric shaded structure facilitates ventilation, and its panelization allows for the input of photovoltaic modules. As an evolving precedent, this model consolidates advanced radiant cooling technology with traditional wood building systems to provide accessible climate solutions for various urgent sites.

The pavilion is open to the public from September to November 2025 on Governors Island in New York.

KlimaKover has been made possible by the Ramboll Foundation, together with the University of Pennsylvania and Ramboll, with contributions from AIL Research, Fast+Epp, SKANSKA, SITU, Trust for Governors Island, Cambium, Mecho, Springs Window Fashions, Ontility, a brand of TERREPOWER, KM Associates of New York, Inc., and Tectonic Engineering.

Shaded fabric roof

Radiant cooling panels

Structural wood joints

Interior condition

Software:
Rhinoceros 3D
Adobe Illustrator

Special thanks:
Kabir Sahni
Britt Johnson
Eugene Chang
Kritika Kharbanda
Lois Suh