Architectural Cases

LANZA atelier, a Mexican architecture practice, has released more information about its 'a serpentine' pavilion, which is scheduled to open to the public on June 6, 2026, at Serpentine South. Created by Isabel Abascal and Alessandro Arienzo, the firm's founders, the project reimagines the classic serpentine, or crinkle-crankle, wall by incorporating a lightweight brick building into Hyde Park's natural surroundings. The pavilion, which marks the 25th anniversary of the annual commission, will be on display until October 2026 and serve as a venue for Serpentine's public program of performances, lectures, screenings, and community gatherings.

The design draws inspiration from the serpentine wall typology, which is distinguished by its alternating curves that offer structural stability while requiring less material. While often associated with Suffolk, this construction technique dates back to ancient Egypt and was later brought to England by Dutch engineers. LANZA atelier reimagines this historical form as a contemporary pavilion, seamlessly blending it with the nearby Serpentine lake and the gallery's current brick architecture. The pavilion is defined by two main walls along the northern edge of the site; one follows a winding path, and the other aligns with the existing tree canopy to preserve views and minimize disruption. A translucent roof supported by slender brick columns filters natural light, creating an open and ethereal environment that invites air and light while adapting to seasonal changes.

Brick, chosen for its connection to the adjacent Serpentine South Gallery’s masonry facade, shapes the pavilion’s identity. The rhythmic arrangement of columns creates a dynamic interplay between solid and porous elements, allowing the structure to function as a spatial filter rather than a mere boundary. Beyond the pavilion itself, LANZA atelier has designed a series of chairs and stools from locally sourced sapele hardwood, reflecting their integrated approach to furniture and architecture. Founded in 2015, the studio is known for its material experimentation and craft traditions, spanning architecture, furniture, and exhibition design. Their work, which has garnered awards such as the Architectural League of New York's Emerging Voices Award in 2023, explores how construction methods shape collective inhabitation. The 2026 Serpentine Pavilion coincides with the program’s 25th anniversary and will be accompanied by LANZA atelier’s first monograph, featuring contributions from architecture, art, and poetry, including an extended conversation with Hans Ulrich Obrist and an essay by José Esparza Chong Cuy. Additionally, Serpentine will collaborate with the Zaha Hadid Foundation and the Architectural Association on parallel events at The Magazine at Serpentine North.

The Serpentine Pavilion demonstrates how innovation can honor tradition, how mindful design can integrate with nature, and how architecture can foster community engagement and cultural dialogue. It exemplifies a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic excellence, inspiring new perspectives on public spaces and design.

The Unileão Sports Center, a creation of Lins Arquitetos Associados, stands as a testament to modern sustainable architecture. Located in Juazeiro do Norte, Brazil, this expansive facility, completed in 2024, spans 25,000 square meters. Its most distinguishing feature is a vast solar energy collection array, composed of 'metal trees' equipped with heliotropic panels. These panels dynamically track the sun's movement throughout the day and year, maximizing energy absorption and setting a new benchmark for energy-efficient design in large-scale sports complexes. The project seamlessly blends athletic functionality with a profound commitment to environmental stewardship.

This innovative sports complex redefines the integration of renewable energy in architectural design. The 'metal trees' supporting the solar panels are not merely functional elements but also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the center, creating a unique visual landscape. This strategic design ensures that the Unileão Sports Center is not only a hub for athletic activities but also a living laboratory for sustainable practices, showcasing how large infrastructures can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

The design philosophy behind the Unileão Sports Center extends beyond energy generation. The architects, George Lins and Cintia Lins, focused on creating a facility that would serve the community's recreational and competitive needs while harmonizing with its natural surroundings. The choice of materials and construction techniques further reflects a dedication to sustainability, aiming for a minimal environmental impact throughout the project's lifecycle. This holistic approach to design underscores the growing importance of eco-conscious development in contemporary architecture.

The center's comprehensive facilities cater to a wide range of sports and fitness activities, providing a modern and inspiring environment for athletes and the general public alike. Its thoughtful layout and advanced energy systems make it a pioneering example of how architectural innovation can address both functional requirements and pressing environmental concerns. The Unileão Sports Center is poised to become a landmark of sustainable design in Brazil, offering valuable lessons for future projects worldwide.

The Unileão Sports Center exemplifies a harmonious blend of cutting-edge design and environmental responsibility. Its prominent solar energy system, featuring sun-tracking panels, ensures maximum energy efficiency for the 25,000 m² facility in Juazeiro do Norte, Brazil. This project by Lins Arquitetos Associados, finished in 2024, showcases an innovative approach to sustainable sports architecture, proving that large-scale developments can be both functional and eco-friendly. The center is a beacon of green design, providing a vibrant space for athletic pursuits while championing a greener future.