MPavilion is an architecture and design collaboration initiated by the Naomi Milgrom Foundation and designed by AL_A, the studio of Stirling Prize-winning, British architect, Amanda Levete.

The MPavilion is constructed from materials and technology developed for the aerospace industry to create a 'forest canopy' of translucent petals that shiver in the wind, and create a play of light and shadow. Each petal is only a few millimetres thick and is supported by a slender carbon-fibre column. Each column is fitted with a ring of LED lights that are activated in the dark and form a light performance synchronised with an evening soundscape.

At the launch on the weekend, Architect Amanda Levete described her vision. "Our Pavilion is a celebration of those natural shelters where we come together. We have achieved an exceptionally light, open structure that sits gently on the land and allows the light, the wind, and sometimes the rain, to form part of the show. It is designed to provide a contemplative, personal experience, as well as a place to congregate.

"Composite technology has revolutionised engineering industries such as aerospace, and has the potential to do the same for construction. The use of composites enables structures of unprecedented lightness combined with great strength and the potential applications in architecture are tantalisingly unexplored."

The Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle, said at the launch, "Following the success of the inaugural Sean Godsell pavilion, which attracted 64,000 visitors, the 2015 MPavilion returns with a dynamic cultural program." 

The Naomi Milgrom Foundation is a not-for-profit that initiates and supports bold, new public design and architecture projects. It founded the MPavilion event in 2014, with the support of the Victorian State Government and the City of Melbourne. Every year for four years an architect is commissioned to design a temporary hub in Queen Victoria Gardens, the centre of Melbourne's Southbank Arts Precinct. The launch marks the beginning of a series of talks, performances, and events held at MPavilion over the summer.

Naomi Milgrim AO described MPavilion at the launch. "Amanda's MPavilion creates an elegant and magical architectural experience for all to enjoy. MPavilion has set a precedent - it's experimental and a thought leader. It responds to its selling and transforms materials, taking technology and innovation to new levels.

This week, a free public 'in conversation' will be held at MPavilion. Martin Roth, Amanda Levete, and Naomi Milgrom AO will discuss the commissioning of innovative contemporary cultural spaces.

Read more:

Studio Mumbai's MPavilion built from bamboo, earth and rope