Serpentine Pavilion 2025: "A Capsule in Time" by Marina Tabassum

Serpentine Pavilion 2025: "A Capsule in Time" by Marina Tabassum

forbes.com

Serpentine Pavilion 2025: "A Capsule in Time" by Marina Tabassum

Marina Tabassum's "A Capsule in Time" is the 2025 Serpentine Pavilion in London's Kensington Gardens, using locally sourced wood and inspired by Bangladeshi design, open June 6th-October 26th, 2025, promoting community engagement and sustainability.

English
United States
OtherArts And CultureSustainabilityLondonArchitectureBangladeshSerpentine PavilionMarina Tabassum
Marina Tabassum Architects (Mta)Serpentine Galleries
Marina TabassumZaha HadidHerzog & De MeuronAi WeiweiOlafur EliassonKjetil ThorsenTheaster GatesNargess Banks
How does Tabassum's design reflect her architectural philosophy and address sustainability concerns?
The pavilion's design reflects Tabassum's ethos of sustainable architecture and community engagement. The use of locally sourced materials, a focus on light and shadow, and the incorporation of a living tree emphasize sustainability and the integration of nature. The pavilion's impermanent nature allows for reuse of materials and contributes to the Serpentine Galleries' fundraising efforts.
What is the central theme and impact of Marina Tabassum's Serpentine Pavilion 2025 design, "A Capsule in Time?
The Serpentine Pavilion, a temporary structure in London's Kensington Gardens, is designed by Marina Tabassum this year. The design, "A Capsule in Time," draws inspiration from Bangladesh, using locally sourced wood and incorporating a semi-mature ginkgo tree. This pavilion, open from June 6th to October 26th, 2025, aims to create a space for diverse people to gather and engage.
What is the potential long-term significance of the Serpentine Pavilion initiative for architectural discourse and practice?
The Serpentine Pavilion project provides a platform for international architects to showcase their work and engage in dialogue about architecture's role in society. Tabassum's design highlights the importance of creating inclusive public spaces and fostering conversations in a context of increasing political volatility and contested public spaces. This unique platform could potentially influence future architectural projects globally.

Cognitive Concepts

4/5

Framing Bias

The article presents a overwhelmingly positive framing of the Serpentine Pavilion and its impact. The architect's quotes are featured prominently, and the language used is highly laudatory. While acknowledging some limitations (e.g., weather affecting light), the overall tone strongly emphasizes the positive aspects of the project.

3/5

Language Bias

The article uses predominantly positive and evocative language to describe the pavilion ('thoughtful initiative', 'impressive list of names', 'beautiful', 'wonderful'). While this enhances the descriptive aspect, it leans away from neutral reporting. For example, instead of 'impressive list of names', a more neutral description could be 'previous architects include'.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses heavily on the architect's perspective and the design of the pavilion, with limited information on the selection process, the budget, or the overall impact of the Serpentine Pavilion initiative on the community. While it mentions the pavilion's role in raising funds for the Serpentine Galleries, a more in-depth analysis of its economic and social impact would provide a fuller picture.

Sustainable Development Goals

Sustainable Cities and Communities Positive
Direct Relevance

The Serpentine Pavilion promotes sustainable design and the use of locally sourced and repurposed materials, reducing waste and environmental impact. The pavilion's design fosters community engagement and provides a space for dialogue and social interaction within a public park setting. The temporary nature of the structure and its potential for reuse align with circular economy principles.