7 June – 27 October 2024 | Kensington Gardens, LONDON
Archipelagic Void by Seoul-based Korean architect Minsuk Cho of Mass Studies is the 23rd Serpentine Pavillion in Kensington Gardens. The pavilion comprises a void in the centre surrounded by smaller adaptable structures, referencing the ‘madang’, or open courtyard found in traditional Korean houses.
Each structure is different in size, form, name, and purpose, providing a platform for various live events. The entry to the pavilion, The Gallery, hosts a sound installation; the artwork, ‘Library of Unread Books’ is hosted in the north of the Pavilion; the Tea House is in the east; the Auditorium in the west; along with an outdoor space, the Playtower. Five covered and five in-between spaces surround the void, integrating with the surrounding park and Pavilion activities.
The structure is predominantly constructed using sustainably sourced Douglas Fir timber. Steel is used for high-stress connections and frames the pre-stressed PVC roof covering. The floor consists of sandstone paving, recycled matting and bound gravel. Precast concrete with high cement replacement is used for the pad foundations and plinths and is removable and reusable. Timber boards, PVC, and polycarbonate are used for roofs and walls. Image of Serpentine Pavilion 2024, Archipelagic Void, designed by Minsuk Cho, Mass Studies © Mass Studies Photo by Iwan Baan Courtesy Serpentine. Serpentine Galleries
