Serpentine pavilion 2026: a playful ribbon of history and craft
The annual Serpentine Pavilion, a fixture in London's Kensington Gardens, continues its quiet revolution. Gone are the ostentatious displays of architectural ego that once defined the structure; in their place, a growing emphasis on connection, inclusivity, and – notably – a surge in designs spearheaded by women architects. This year's iteration, unveiled for 2026, exemplifies this shift, offering a refreshing blend of historical technique, playful design, and cross-cultural inspiration.
A return to vernacular roots
Designed by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo of Lanza Atelier, based in Mexico City, the 2026 pavilion takes the form of a bright orange, ribbon-like structure. Inspired by the sinuous curves of serpents, the design appears deceptively simple at first glance. However, it’s the pavilion's construction – utilizing a single layer of Sienna bricks arranged in a ‘crinkle-crankle’ pattern – that reveals the true depth of its architectural ingenuity.
The crinkle-crankle wall, a technique with roots stretching back to Ancient Egypt, offers remarkable structural stability. By dispersing the load across the curve, a single-brick wall can achieve a strength that would require substantial reinforcement in a straight design. The technique found its way to the UK via Dutch engineers in the 17th century, initially used for drainage systems in the Fens, and later adopted for boundary walls, offering cost-effectiveness and even a means to circumvent the Brick Tax levied by King George III.
‘England’s winding fruit walls temper climate, create shelter, and enable growth,’ explain Abascal and Arienzo, highlighting the technique’s broader historical and social significance. It’s a design that speaks to a deep understanding of vernacular craft and Architecture’s capacity to unite people.
A global dialogue woven in brick
The pavilion isn't merely a revival of a historical technique; it's a conversation across continents. The crinkle-crankle wall, while prominent in the UK, also appears in Mexico, creating a neat thematic bridge for the Mexico City-based Lanza Atelier. The structure is capped with a polycarbonate and steel grid roof, allowing light and air to filter in and creating a welcoming, permeable space, complemented by wooden chairs and stools also designed by the duo.
The evolution of the Serpentine Pavilion itself reflects a broader shift within the architectural world. Following the pioneering work of Zaha Hadid in 2000, the commission was largely dominated by high-profile, male architects. However, the momentum of the #MeToo movement in 2017 sparked a tangible change, with Frida Escobedo’s 2018 design marking a turning point. Since then, women architects have increasingly taken the helm, bringing diverse perspectives and a focus on creating spaces that foster understanding and connection. Sumayya Vally, Lina Ghotmeh, and Marina Tabassum have each contributed uniquely to this evolving narrative, demonstrating the power of inclusive design.
The 2026 Serpentine Pavilion, with its playful design, historical resonance, and collaborative spirit, is a testament to this ongoing transformation. It's a space not just to admire, but to experience—a vibrant thread woven into the fabric of London's cultural landscape.