Oriented east to west, the design sits nestled in a ring of Portuguese cork oaks, native trees shrouded in mysticism and considered sacred in local folklore. A space of transitions, the visitor is guided between the trees and columns, through flowing fabrics guarded by suspended clay mouras - the spirits of folklore who appear on midsummer - and into a space of contemplation and reflection.

Public House collaborated with Cella Collective to design and construct the cinema stage for Waking Life festival in Portugal.

A lightweight, self-build timber frame structure is nestled between five ancient Portuguese cork oak trees, which gently prop the roof structure horizontally. By using the trees in this way, the vertical load of the roof is supported on a grid of very slender timber columns that punctuate the space but allow good views of the stage, screen and surroundings.

With limited equipment and tools, careful timber fabrication planning and construction sequence were needed so that ten people were able to assemble the full stage in around 4 weeks. Public House developed a modular, repeatable system of beams to create the 5m spanning timber roof; developed a construction sequence around a series of independent modules that could be lifted safely; and designed simple screw connections and splices.

The timber structure is remains in place all year round and reused each year for the festival. Every year, we work with a team of volunteers to repair and refresh the fabric cladding systems, furnishing and lighting.

Additional photography by @niccola.be & James Hepper.