The Serpentine Pavilion, a summer staple in Kensington Gardens, has long been a canvas for architectural experimentation. This year, Lanza Atelier, a Mexico City-based studio, has crafted a crinkle-crankle wall that is both a nod to history and a bold statement of architectural innovation. The pavilion, with its wavy brick wall, is a testament to the studio's ability to reinterpret familiar materials and forms, offering a refreshing take on the Serpentine's tradition of showcasing new and emerging talent.
What makes this pavilion particularly fascinating is the studio's decision to use brick, a material often overlooked for temporary structures. The crinkle-crankle wall, with its sinusoidal curves, is not just a structural marvel but also a nod to the past. Originally introduced by Dutch engineers in the 17th century to drain the marshes of the Fens, these walls have a rich history, dating back to ancient Egyptian civilizations. Lanza Atelier's interpretation of this traditional form is both respectful and innovative, using brick in a way that is both earthbound and elegant.
In my opinion, the use of brick is a clever move, as it challenges the notion that temporary structures must be made of lightweight, disposable materials. The bricks, manufactured in Surrey and set without mortar joints, are a subtle yet powerful statement. Their ordinariness is elevated by the studio's design, which sets them back to front, creating a woven textile-like surface. This attention to detail is a testament to Lanza Atelier's commitment to craftsmanship and spatial design traditions.
The pavilion's undulating form is a response to the curves of existing tree canopies and the Serpentine pond, creating a sense of fluidity and movement. The flat glass roof, supported by a steel grid, adds a modern touch, while the row of glittering lights along the top of the crinkle-crankle wall hints at potential showbiz drama. The structure is a perfect blend of simplicity and logic, with a focus on creating a gathering place and a series of little rooms.
One thing that immediately stands out is the pavilion's ability to reframe a maligned structure. The wall, instead of dividing, attracts and becomes a gathering place. This is a powerful statement in an era where walls are often associated with division and conflict. Lanza Atelier's interpretation of the crinkle-crankle wall is a reminder that architecture can be a force for unity and community building.
The use of brick in the Serpentine Pavilion is a significant development, as it challenges the notion that temporary structures must be made of lightweight, disposable materials. It is a reminder that architecture can be both innovative and respectful of tradition. Lanza Atelier's interpretation of the crinkle-crankle wall is a testament to the studio's ability to spark curiosity and make people enjoy architecture more. As the archetypal building block, brick is a fitting choice for the Serpentine, and after 25 years, it is high time that it took center stage.
In conclusion, the Lanza Atelier pavilion is a refreshing take on the Serpentine's tradition of showcasing new and emerging talent. It is a structure that challenges conventions, respects history, and inspires curiosity. The use of brick is a powerful statement, and the crinkle-crankle wall is a testament to the studio's ability to create a gathering place that attracts instead of divides. As the pavilion stands on the green carpet of Kensington Gardens, it is a reminder that architecture can be a force for unity and community building, and a celebration of the power of brick.
