The Serpentine Pavilion, a summer staple in Kensington Gardens, has once again transformed into a masterpiece of architectural innovation. This year, Lanza Atelier, a Mexico City-based studio, has taken the helm, presenting a crinkle-crankle wall that is both a nod to history and a bold statement of architectural experimentation. The pavilion, with its wavy, rust-colored brick wall, is a delightful onomatopoeia of architectural design, paying homage to the Dutch slangenmuur (snake walls) and the ancient Egyptian civilization, while also offering a fresh perspective on the traditional brick.
What makes this pavilion particularly fascinating is the studio's approach to materials and form. Lanza Atelier has reinterpreted the familiar brick, a seemingly ordinary and inexpensive building block, and elevated it to a work of art. The bricks, manufactured in Surrey, are set without mortar joints, creating a texture that resembles a woven textile. This subtle transformation, achieved through the use of reinforcing bars, adds a layer of complexity and visual interest to the structure. The bricks are set back to front, ribbed sides out, which is an unconventional technique that further enhances the pavilion's aesthetic appeal.
The crinkle-crankle wall, a technical term for the undulating brickwork, is not just a visual treat. It is a structural marvel, providing inherent stability and resisting lateral forces. The curvilinear form, as mathematicians would describe it, is an elegant solution to structural challenges, requiring only a single layer of bricks. This design also takes advantage of the sun's path, with the south-facing side catching the sun, generating warmth for the historic fruit trees and prolonging the growing season. In my opinion, this is a brilliant example of how architecture can be both functional and beautiful, creating a structure that is both sustainable and aesthetically pleasing.
Lanza Atelier's pavilion is a refreshing take on the Serpentine's tradition of showcasing new and emerging talent. It is a departure from the early imperial phase, characterized by elaborate parodies of established superstars, and marks a more nuanced midlife phase. The studio's exploration of craft, technology, and spatial design traditions has resulted in a pavilion that is both innovative and respectful of the site's history. The undulating form, inspired by the curves of existing tree canopies and the Serpentine pond, creates a sense of fluidity and movement, inviting visitors to engage with the space in a unique way.
One thing that immediately stands out is the pavilion's ability to reframe a maligned structure. The wall, often associated with division and separation, is instead presented as a gathering place and a series of little rooms. Lanza Atelier's interpretation of the crinkle-crankle wall challenges the traditional perception of walls, suggesting that they can be a source of attraction and community rather than division. This is a powerful message, particularly in light of President Trump's infamous 'big beautiful wall' on the US/Mexico border.
What many people don't realize is the historical significance of the crinkle-crankle wall. Originally introduced by Dutch engineers to drain the marshes of the Fens in the 17th century, these walls have a rich history in rural Suffolk. Their elegant economy of materials and curvilinear form make them a fascinating subject for mathematicians and structural engineers alike. The fact that they have been found in excavations of ancient Egyptian civilizations further highlights their enduring appeal and adaptability.
In my opinion, the use of brick in the Serpentine Pavilion is a significant development. Brick, often regarded as too earthbound and permanent for a temporary structure, is given new life through Lanza Atelier's design. The bricks, set without mortar joints and threaded through reinforcing bars, create a texture that is both organic and modern. This subtle transformation of a familiar material sparks curiosity and makes the pavilion more enjoyable for visitors. As the archetypal building block, used for millennia, brick seems only right for the Serpentine's 25th anniversary.
In conclusion, Lanza Atelier's Serpentine Pavilion is a masterpiece of architectural innovation and a refreshing take on the traditional brick. The crinkle-crankle wall, with its wavy, rust-colored brickwork, is a delightful onomatopoeia of design, paying homage to history while offering a fresh perspective. The pavilion's ability to reframe a maligned structure and its innovative use of materials make it a thought-provoking and engaging addition to the Serpentine's summer lineup. It is a testament to the power of architecture to challenge, inspire, and delight, and I can't wait to see what the next 25 years bring.
