The phrase ‘Experimental Architecture’ was borne out of several avant-garde architectural movement in the twentieth century. In particular it was an expression used by modernist and postmodernist architects who were seeking to push the boundaries of what might be possible in a built environment.
The term has now come to describe projects that test new ideas, materials or technologies and these experiments are often conducted outside of traditional or residential architectural schemes. However, there are some iconic projects that evidence experimental architecture in commercial schemes. Perhaps Peter Cook’s Kunsthaus Graz and the Centre Pompidou by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers are two of the very best examples.
The Serpentine Series of Pavilions, an annual commission dating back to 2000 provides a great platform for some of the very best experimental architecture. The commission is now eagerly anticipated each year and is regularly referenced globally.
The Serpentine Gallery invites internationally known architects to design and create their first built structure in England. Each year the selected architect will use references from their own culture and experience to inform the design. This approach brings new thinking, materials, and methodologies to these experiments. Great examples of this include Freda Escobedo’s 2016 pavilion and Francis Kéré’s of 2017.
We’re delighted to have been involved in the design development, manufacture, and construction of the Serpentine Series of Pavilions since 2009. It provides us with interesting manufacturing and presents thorny challenges to resolve. And it always results in some excellent contributions to our project portfolio. It’s a unique commission and we’re tremendously proud to be part of it.
Ultimately experimental architecture matters because it often influences mainstream architecture by introducing new technologies and concepts that later become absorbed into practice. More importantly, it also serves as a cultural exploration of the relationship between humans, space, culture and the built environment. We’re looking forward to revealing this year’s experiment in June this year.
Read more about the Serpentine Pavilion of 2025 here.
