Pallet Pod: a Compact Space From Reused Wood

Every day, wooden pallets carry the weight of global trade—then quietly fade into the background, discarded and forgotten. But what if we could give them a second story? What if waste could become a home, a haven, or a quiet spot for reflection?

This project began with a simple idea to transform used shipping pallets into a functional, beautiful, and temporary shelter. Using Autodesk Revit for the design and Lumion for rendering, I created a compact wooden structure that reflects sustainability, creativity, and simplicity. It's a space built for rest, learning, or even emergency use—made entirely from materials that once had another life

Autodesk Revit 2021 – For modeling the structure accurately.

Lumion – To create high-quality outdoor renders and simulate real-life materials and lighting.

1. Foundation and Floor
2. I started with a rectangle roughly 2.5m x 3.5m. The floor is made from aligned pallet wood slats, raised slightly off the ground.
3. In Revit, I used structural beams and floors, assigning a custom pallet texture for realism.
4. Frame Structure
5. Four corner posts and side beams were added, made entirely from reused pallet wood.
6. I used Revit’s "Component" and "Model In-Place" features to arrange the beams with a raw, handmade look.
7. Walls
8. The pavilion has transparent side panels (glass or polycarbonate), letting in natural light while keeping the inside cozy.
9. I left one face completely open, encouraging airflow and easy access.
10. Roof
11. The flat roof uses pallet planks again, spaced slightly for a modern look. In the render, it casts a soft pattern of shadows during the day.
12. Interior Touch
13. I added two beanbag chairs and a simple mattress seat for relaxation—perfect for reading or resting in nature.

Once modeling was complete:

1. I exported the Revit file into Lumion, where I applied wood textures that resemble real pallet wood.
2. Added glass on the side walls, a grass environment, and some everyday objects like a mower and bins to place the shelter in a believable setting.
3. Lighting was set to simulate a soft, cloudy evening—bringing out the calm vibe of the space.

The Pallet Pavilion is built for versatility:

1. A reading nook in a school or home garden.
2. A pop-up classroom or field research station.
3. A rest hut on large farms or campuses.
4. Even a community discussion space.