The layout of the pavilion, which will be erected in Kensington Gardens next summer, is striking in its deliberate "negligence", which has already caused a stream of jokes in the architectural community. But it is precisely this reluctance to conform to the standards and rules of decency that allows us to hope for - at least - an interesting and unexpected result that we will get this summer.
Gehry describes his project as a synthesis of an amphitheater and a promenade made of glass and wood. In accordance with the rules of the Serpentine Gallery program, this will be his first construction in England, (but not in the UK: as the architect already has a completed project in Scotland).
The pavilion will be a "street" leading from the park to the permanent art gallery building. It will be partially covered with glass canopies to protect visitors from bad weather and bright sunlight. Seating stands will be arranged on the sides of this "promenade", and five small terraces will surround the building. Any of these sites can be used as a stage or a small cafe.
The Gehry facility will be the eighth "edition" of the Serpentine Summer Pavilion program.
