mass research designs ‘archipelagic void’ for the 2024 serpentine pavilion in london

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MASS STUDIES’ SERPENTINE PAVILION WILL OPEN IN June 2024 Archipelagic Void unfolds around an open space

MASS STUDIES’ SERPENTINE PAVILION WILL OPEN IN June 2024

Seoul-based architectural firm Mass Studies, led by Minsuk Cho, has been chosen to design the 23rd Serpentine Pavilion, which will be displayed at Serpentine South from June 7 to October 27, 2024. The upcoming pavilion, titled Archipelagic Void, consists of five islands encircling an open space. Each island features adaptable structures at its periphery, integrating with the natural ecology and temporal conditions of the park. Together, these structures form a constellation that shapes a central circular void, drawing inspiration from the Madang of traditional Korean houses. This opening functions as a versatile space that can adapt to accommodate a range of activities, from individual daily routines to larger collective events, aiming to create a dynamic and engaging environment within the Pavilion. ‘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,’ describes Minsuk Cho on their approach.

Archipelagic Void, renders © Mass Studies

Archipelagic Void unfolds around an open space

Supported by Goldman Sachs, the multifaceted Serpentine Pavilion is composed of distinct structures, each serving a specific purpose around the central void. Functioning like ‘content machines,’ these individually named structures include the Gallery, the Auditorium, the Tea House, and the Play Tower. The Gallery acts as the main entry, extending Serpentine South’s curatorial activities outdoors. The Auditorium serves as a designated gathering area, while a small Library to the north provides a quiet space for reflection. In homage to the historical role of Serpentine South as a tea pavilion, the Tea House is also incorporated. The Play Tower, characterized by an open netted structure, represents the most open space. Mass Studies conceived these structures to form a composition of ten spaces surrounding the void —five covered spaces and five open, in-between areas. Acting as thresholds, they harmoniously integrate with the surrounding park and Pavilion activities. These flexible spaces, illuminated by varying natural light conditions, will welcome visitors and host live programs.

‘Cho’s Pavilion is modular by nature, composed of individual structures that serve specific functions yet also come together as a continuous unit. Serpentine is deeply grateful to our loyal partners and supporters for enabling Minsuk Cho’s multifaceted concept to become a reality, and for sustaining the Pavilion each year as a model for exploring innovative ideas in architecture,’ shares Bettina Korek, Chief Executive, and Hans Ulrich Obrist, Artistic Director, Serpentine. During the summer and extending until October, the Serpentine Pavilion 2024 will serve as the stage for Serpentine’s live events program. It will host Park Nights, an interdisciplinary platform offering live experiences in music, poetry, spoken word, and dance. These events will run concurrently with Serpentine’s programs in Technology and Ecology, including the 2024 Infinite Ecologies Marathon and Civic & Education activations.

portrait of Minsuk Cho, image © Mok Jungwook