Minsuk Cho reveals star-shaped 2024 Serpentine Pavilion
Architect Minsuk Cho has been chosen as the designer for the 2024 Serpentine Pavilion, and the first visuals of his design have been released.
Design Concept and Structure
The 2024 Serpentine Pavilion, named Archipelagic Void, will be designed by Minsuk Cho and is set to open in London's Kensington Gardens in June 2024. It will be Cho's first building in the UK. The pavilion will consist of five structures arranged in a star shape around a central, circular void. This design was inspired by the small courtyards named madangs found in historic Korean houses. Each structure within the pavilion will serve a different function, with the largest one called The Play Tower featuring netted walls.
Cho drew inspiration for his design from the site's history and previous pavilions built on the same location. He wanted to explore the potential of the central void and shift the architectural focus away from the built center of the past. By doing so, new possibilities and narratives can emerge.
Minsuk Cho and Mass Studies
Minsuk Cho is the founder of Mass Studies, a Korean architecture studio based in Seoul. Cho and his studio are known for their innovative and unique designs. In 2014, Cho co-curated the Golden Lion-winning Korean pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale. Mass Studies has also worked on other notable projects, such as the Republic of Korea Pavilion at Shanghai Expo 2010 and the Songwon Art Centre.
Cho's selection as the designer for the Serpentine Pavilion continues the tradition of showcasing talented architects and artists from around the world. The commission has been running since 2000 and has featured renowned architects like Zaha Hadid, Frida Escobedo, Bjarke Ingels, and Sou Fujimoto.
Legacy of the Serpentine Pavilion
The Serpentine Pavilion commission is highly prestigious and has become a platform for groundbreaking architectural designs. Each year, a different architect or artist is selected to create a temporary structure in Kensington Gardens. Notable past pavilions include Lina Ghotmeh's circular timber pavilion in 2023 and Theaster Gates' Black Chapel in 2022.
The 2024 Serpentine Pavilion by Minsuk Cho is eagerly awaited, as it promises to bring a new and innovative design to the iconic location. The pavilion will be a must-see attraction for architecture enthusiasts and visitors to Kensington Gardens.
