Bangladeshi architect Marina Tabassum has been selected to design the 2024 Serpentine Pavilion in London, marking a significant contribution to the annual architectural event. The pavilion, titled A Capsule in Time, will be open to the public from June 7 to October 27, 2024, and aims to explore the themes of permanence and impermanence in architecture.
The design features four wooden capsule forms with a translucent façade, inspired by the traditional shamiana tents of South Asia, which symbolize community gatherings. Tabassum emphasizes the pavilion's kinetic element, allowing one of the capsule forms to move and transform the space, fostering interaction and connection among visitors.
As the 25th iteration of the Serpentine Pavilion, this project continues the tradition of inviting renowned architects to create innovative structures that engage with the public. Previous pavilions have been designed by notable figures including Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry, and Sou Fujimoto, each bringing a unique vision to Kensington Gardens.
Tabassum's firm, Marina Tabassum Architects, is known for its socially and ecologically conscious designs, aiming to root architecture in local context and respond to climate challenges. This year's pavilion will not only serve as a temporary structure but also as a platform for dialogue and community engagement, reflecting the evolving relationship between architecture and society.