Simplicity at its Finest

Each of the summer pavilions of the Serpentine Gallery have been unique in addressing the conditions of the Kensington Gardens. As an architecture student, it is inspiring to see the vast array of ideas that have come to exist in this area, one after another. No matter if you think each one is successful or not, there is something to be learned from every installation. That being said, while studying these pavilions, I found one of the most interesting projects to be the structure designed by the SANAA firm in 2009. While this pavilion does not have the most interesting qualities, I feel that it contains a depth that is not found at surface level.

SANAA uses the idea of reflection to make a statement. While the abundance of this material does certainly have a bold effect on the space, reflective material, in my opinion, is a common approach to the concept of blending landscape and architecture. The use of this material does not seem to be successful in the way the architects intended. Instead of reflecting the landscape and surroundings, it only reflects the ground beneath the canopy. However, apart from the materiality, I think SANAA is very conscious of the purpose the pavilion: it is a pavilion. The firm creates this type of architecture in its simplest form, making a very powerful statement. They created a shelter from overhead weather conditions that is integrated with its surroundings, all the while providing people a place to gather. Architecture is sometimes overdone and excessive. SANAA is backing away from that notion, showing us that it is sometimes very simple. The organic shape also goes along with the idea of playing off of the landscape.

In this model, I want to show the effect of the reflective canopy. Though it is meant to reflect the scenery around the pavilion, it is only effective in reflecting what is directly below the roof. I think this pavilion makes many strong statements, but this is not one of them.