MPavilion 10: Tadao Ando’s first australian project unveiled

The Naomi Milgrom Foundation today unveiled the design for MPavilion 10, commissioned from Pritzker Prize-winner Tadao Ando of Japan. One of the world’s leading architects, Ando’s design for MPavilion 10 reflects his signature use of striking geometric interventions in nature and his precise, assured use of concrete.

MPavilion 10 will open in Melbourne this summer, marking the start of an annual five-month design festival of free events in Melbourne’s iconic Queen Victoria Gardens. This will be the tenth MPavilion festival, which has grown to become one of Australia’s most-visited and impactful festivals, attracting more than 350,000 people in 2022.

Conceived as a new meeting place within Melbourne’s Arts Precinct, Ando’s design for MPavilion encapsulates his desire to create a memorable structure that responds directly to the Gardens.

It strives for spatial purity, employing the geometry of circles and squares to create a space in harmony with nature.

MPavilion 10 features a large canopy – a 14.4-metre aluminium-clad disc resting on a central concrete column.Two offset squares create two entrances that lead to the centre of the pavilion. Concrete walls of varying lengths partially enclose the space to create a tranquil sanctuary reminiscent of a traditional Japanese walled garden. A long horizontal opening (19.4cm x 22.5cm) running the length of both the north and south walls frames views of the Melbourne skyline and parklands, connecting the city and lush greenery of the Queen Victoria Gardens to the interior. The geometric forms and symmetry are reinforced by an internal arrangement that is half-paved and half-reflecting pool, which mirrors the canopy, sky, city and surrounds.

“The design began with a desire to create a sense of eternity within Melbourne’s garden oasis,” shared 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 AC, commissioner of MPavilion. “Like Tadao Ando, I am passionate about architecture that promotes public life and encourages social interaction – I’m thrilled that Australians will be able to directly experience his genius through this incredibly special meeting place for conversation, the exchange of ideas and contemplation.We look forward to seeing how visitors, designers, artists and others will respond to this dramatic and serene space, as well as the creativity it will generate.”