A space for reflection was the driving force for this year's Serpentine Pavilion, located in the Kensington Gardens in London. Commissioned by the Serpentine Gallery, the Serpentine Pavilion is an annual occurrence from June to October that "has become an international site for architectural experimentation."
In 2022, the Serpentine Gallery tapped the talents of Chicago-based artist Theaster Gates who worked alongside architecture studio Adjaye Associates to create a meditative space for reflection. The structure is cylindrical and chapel-like. Aptly titled 'Black Chapel,' the pavilion is mostly constructed with blackened timber. Gates' installation references some historic religious structures like the 16th-century Tempietto in Rome and the bottle kilns in Stoke-on-Trent in England.
The Black Chapel pavilion was purchased by Therme Group and it will be relocated after its run at the Kensington Gardens.
Image Credit: Iwan Baan
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Meditative Architecture
- Explore the potential of creating architecture and public spaces dedicated to quiet reflection and meditation.
- Cylindrical Structures
- Rethink architectural designs and explore the possibilities of creating cylindrical structures as a new standard in buildings and pavilions.
- Collaborative Installations
- Invest in partnerships between artists and architects to create innovative and meaningful installations that push boundaries and showcase new possibilities for design and public spaces.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Architecture
- Architects can leverage meditative architecture and cylindrical structures to create innovative designs for places of worship, public spaces, and private residences.
- Art
- Artists can collaborate with architects to create installations that highlight the intersection of art and architecture and their potential to elevate public spaces and experiences.
- Tourism
- Developers and tourism industry professionals can leverage meditative spaces and unique installations to create new tourism experiences and destinations that go beyond the traditional sightseeing and cultural tours.
