The 2011 Serpentine Gallery Pavilion, designed by Pritzker Prize winner Peter Zumthor, opens today. The design "was designed to help its audience relax, observe, and then, perhaps, start talking again -- perhaps not." Materials are important in aiding design, emphasizing the role that senses and emotions play in our architectural experience. Peter Zumthor added: "The concept of this year's pavilion is the Hortus Conclusus, a room for contemplation, a garden within a garden." The planted garden, enclosed by dark structures, was conceived by influential Dutch designer Piet Oudolf.
- Architect: Peter Zumthor
