WHAT?  The Serpentine Pavilion - Archipelagic Void

WHERE?  Serpentine South, Kensington Gardens, London W2 3XA

WHEN?  Now until 27th October.   Free to view 

WHY GO?  To bring the outside in!  Designed by South Korean architect Minsuk Cho, the 23rd Serpentine Pavilion is a radical departure from previous projects.  It’s uniquely different in concept and build. 

For a start, it’s actually five star shaped ‘islands’, coming together to make one massive rambling arena that is especially people friendly with aspects of interest for every visitor. 

Based on the Korean concept of traditional courtyards called ‘madang’, the idea is to roam freely from the Gallery to the Library, Auditorium to the Tea House and for the playful at heart, there’s even a Play Tower of bright orange netting. 

To the strains of atmospheric Korean music inspired by the surrounding park, it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

Visitors are encouraged to submit books to the Library of Unread Books; the general premise is that books should be shared for the common benefit of everyone.

An encouraging communal message is hammered home by Cho and his Korean practice Mass Studies, and as always with each designer of this annual pavilion, it’s a ‘first’ for him in London but judging by the joyful reception, it most certainly won’t be the last time he designs a structure in the UK.

IN THE KNOW As always The Serpentine Pavilion hosts a popular Park Nights summer programme of live music, poetry readings and performance dance created within its site specific structure. 

Check online for a full schedule of events which will include a dance performance by Korean choreographer Eun-Me Ahn and her company on 28th and 29th June.