‘Architecture of emptiness’: Tadao Ando’s MPavilion unveiled

The 2023 MPavilion will be a "tranquil sanctuary" that houses a reflective pool and a large circular canopy within Melbourne's Queen Victoria Gardens.

Japanese Pritzker Prize laureate Tadao Ando was appointed to design the pavilion by the Naomi Milgrom Foundation in March 2023.

The design reflects Ando's signature use of concrete and geometric forms. Two right-angled walls, offset from each other, will establish a square enclosure around an aluminium-clad canopy supported by a circular concrete column. A wide horizontal slit will frame views of Melbourne's skyline. Inside, a pool will occupy half of the ground plane, reflecting the canopy, city and sky.

"The design began with a desire to create a sense of eternity within Melbourne's garden oasis," said Tadao Ando. "I wanted to create an experience that will last forever in the hearts of all who visit. I imagined an architecture of emptiness, that lets light and breeze enter and breathe life into it. A place that resonates with the environment, becomes one with the garden and blossoms with infinite creativity. MPavilion 10 is designed to encourage encounters between people, the natural world and endless dialogue."

"Tadao Ando's architecture is remarkable because it radically affects the way we perceive the world around us," said Naomi Milgrom, of the Naomi Milgrom Foundation.

The pavilion is slated to open to the public on 16 November 2023. The Naomi Milgrom Foundation has also opened expressions of interest for programming of MPavilion's tenth season, which will close on 14 June.