Macau’s Shoreline Gets a Sustainable Pagoda Made of Bamboo Scaffolding and Tea-Waste Panels

Designboom · 2026-11-01
Macau’s Shoreline Gets a Sustainable Pagoda Made of Bamboo Scaffolding and Tea-Waste Panels

A new temporary installation in Macau merges traditional pagoda architecture with eco-friendly materials, creating a striking landmark along the city’s shoreline. Designed by Impromptu Projects, the structure features a slender bamboo frame wrapped in a translucent fabric skin, echoing the classic tiered pagoda form while using sustainable construction techniques. The project also incorporates panels made from tea waste, highlighting innovative recycling methods in architecture. Located in Macau, a region known for its blend of Portuguese and Chinese heritage, the installation offers a modern interpretation of cultural identity through design. It serves as both an artistic statement and a functional space, inviting visitors to experience the interplay of light, shadow, and natural materials. The use of bamboo scaffolding, a common sight in Asian construction, reinforces the connection to local building traditions. This project underscores a growing trend toward temporary, low-impact structures that prioritize environmental consciousness without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. As cities seek greener solutions, Macau’s pagoda stands as a model for how tradition and sustainability can coexist in contemporary design.