The latest addition to London’s architectural landscape, Peter Cook’s Play Pavilion, officially opened on World Play Day, 11 June 2025. This striking structure, located beside the main Serpentine Pavilion designed by Marina Tabassum, marks a celebration of creativity and interaction, drawing inspiration from the ideals of play and exploration. The pavilion, sponsored by the Lego Group, features a distinctive hemispherical design built upon a circular base, reaching a height of 7.8 metres.
Cook, a renowned architect and founding member of the innovative group Archigram, describes the pavilion as a "piece of theatre," emphasising that play transcends mere survival and achievement. In this sense, the pavilion transforms an ordinary space into a realm where imagination can flourish. Speaking to the Architects' Journal, Cook articulated his vision: "Play encourages, or at least permits us, to explore and idly delight in a territory between the wayward and speculative towards unashamed amusement."
The pavilion is a tactile experience, boasting a multi-coloured façade adorned with integrated Lego bricks, contributing both a playful aesthetic and interactive engagement for visitors. Its lightweight dome roof, crafted from translucent and opaque prestressed membranes, enhances the immersive experience, pushing the boundaries of traditional pop-up structures. The interactive aspect of the pavilion aligns it with the Serpentine's ongoing commitment to family-friendly programming, continuing a legacy that began 25 years ago with Zaha Hadid's inaugural pavilion.
Next to Cook’s creation, Tabassum’s pavilion, titled A Capsule in Time, offers a serene counterpoint. Drawing inspiration from traditional Shamiyana tents and arched garden canopies, this structure features four wooden arches encircling a central ginkgo tree, creating a tranquil space for contemplation. Tabassum, who is celebrated for her sustainable architectural practices, aimed this pavilion more at adults, providing a retreat where parents can read while their children explore the adjacent Play Pavilion. Describing her design, Tabassum remarked, “This one is more for the adults.”
The contrasting designs highlight a broader dialogue about the role of architecture in public spaces—one seeking to inspire playful engagement while the other provides a contemplative haven. Both structures will be open to the public until 26 October, inviting visitors to revel in the unique experiences each offers.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of contemporary life, these pavilions serve as reminders of the importance of play and reflection in fostering community and joy. They stand as milestones not just in architectural innovation but also as contributions to the cultural fabric of London.
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Source: Noah Wire Services