Minsuk Cho Unveils the 2024 Serpentine Pavilion: A Masterpiece of Connectivity and Void
The much-anticipated 2024 Serpentine Pavilion has been unveiled, designed by the renowned South Korean architect Minsuk Cho and his firm, Mass Studies. The 23rd pavilion, running from 7 June to 27 October, is generously sponsored by Goldman Sachs, a stalwart supporter of this project for the past decade.
This year's pavilion, described as an “archipelagic void”, is an architectural marvel that invites visitors to explore the concept of interconnectedness through innovative spatial design.
An Exploration of Interconnectedness
Minsuk Cho’s pavilion for the Serpentine Galleries, nestled in the heart of London's Kensington Gardens, is a celebration of connectivity and voids—both physical and metaphorical.
According to the Serpentine Galleries, the structure challenges conventional architectural forms by creating a network of interconnected spaces that evoke a sense of unity and community. Cho's design is inspired by the concept of an archipelago, where individual islands (or spaces) are linked together, forming a cohesive whole.
Design and Inspiration
The pavilion’s design features a series of fluid, open spaces that blur the lines between interior and exterior.
As The Art Newspaper notes, Cho says in a statement: "We began by asking what can be uncovered and added to the Serpentine site, which has already explored over 20 iterations at the center of the lawn, from a roster of great architects and artists. To approach this new chapter differently, instead of viewing it as a carte blanche, we embraced the challenge of considering the many existing peripheral elements while exploring the center as a void."
The pavilion is a “dynamic hub of encounters”, where visitors can engage in various activities, from quiet contemplation to vibrant social interactions. The structure's fluidity and openness encourage movement and interaction, making it a dynamic space that adapts to the needs of its users. The pavilion’s design facilitates a unique experience for each visitor, depending on how they choose to navigate the space.
“The Archipelagic Void” features five unique timber 'islands' of varying sizes and forms, each supported by identical footings that adapt to the site's sloping terrain. The curving roofs are connected by a steel ring, forming an oculus that draws natural light to the center. These islands serve as nodes, linking the Serpentine South gallery with pedestrian paths in the park, while also referencing traditional Korean houses with a central madang courtyard.
Each structure has a distinct purpose. The Gallery hosts a six-channel sound installation by Jang Young-Gyu, combining Kensington Gardens' natural sounds with traditional Korean music.
The largest island, the Auditorium, offers space for public gatherings, performances, and talks. To the north, The Library of Unread Books by Heman Chong and Renée Staal features a 'living' library of donated unread books, exploring themes of access and distribution. The southeast Play Tower is a pyramid with a bright orange netscape for visitor interaction. Finally, Cho nods to the Serpentine's history with the Tea House, a tribute to its original function before becoming an art gallery in 1970.
Take a look inside these extraordinary structures here: https://youtu.be/UWI-_hR25-Y
A Landmark in Contemporary Architecture
The 2024 Serpentine Pavilion continues the tradition of showcasing cutting-edge architectural designs that push the boundaries of conventional architecture.
In 2014, Cho co-curated the Korean Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale, where his project, Crow’s Eye View: The Korean Peninsula, explored the architecture of both North and South Korea and earned the prestigious Golden Lion for best national participation.
Launched in 2000, the Serpentine Pavilion has become a platform for renowned international architects to create their first structures in London. Notable past designers include Zaha Hadid (2000), Frank Gehry (2008), and Sou Fujimoto (2013). Last year, Lina Ghotmeh, designed the pavilion and she has since been commissioned to design a contemporary art museum in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
Minsuk Cho’s contribution is a testament to his ability to create spaces that are not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful. His pavilion stands as a beacon of contemporary design, inviting visitors to reflect on the connections that shape our world.
For those looking to experience this architectural masterpiece, the pavilion will be open throughout the summer until 27th October 2024, offering a unique opportunity to engage with one of the most thought-provoking designs in recent years. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or simply someone seeking a new experience, Minsuk Cho's Serpentine Pavilion promises to be an unforgettable addition to London’s cultural landscape.
For more details on the pavilion and its inspiration, you can explore articles on the Serpentine Galleries website, Architecture Today, and The Art Newspaper.
