A first look at the completed 2026 Serpentine Pavilion by LANZA atelier

Serpentine has offered a first look at the completed 2026 Serpentine Pavilion designed by Mexico City-based studio LANZA atelier, ahead of its June 6th opening in London’s Kensington Gardens.

Founded by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo in 2015, the studio was announced as the designers in January.

Image credit: Iwan Baan, courtesy of Serpentine

This year’s pavilion takes inspiration from the “serpentine wall” or “crinkle-crankle wall,” a historical brick construction method characterized by alternating curves. Originating in ancient Egypt and later introduced to East Anglia in the UK by Dutch engineers, the undulating wall form provides structural stability while using fewer bricks than a straight wall. The design also references the nearby Serpentine Lake, named for its curved shape.

“Inspired by the figure of the serpent as a generative and protective force, we draw a parallel with England’s winding fruit walls, which are structu...