Lambeth Green Pavilion
A New Entrance Pavilion for the Garden Museum
During the Summer of 2021 Charles Holland Architects submitted a proposal for an eye-catching gateway to Lambeth Green in London. Conceived as both an entrance gateway and a garden pavilion, our design drew on the history of the site while providing a welcoming and functional space for the museum’s visitors and volunteers.
The pavilion is designed to serve as a distinctive gateway to Lambeth Green, a small public park next to the Garden Museum on the south bank of the Thames. The expressive design thoughtfully integrates historical references, drawing on the rich architectural heritage of Lambeth. Inspirations from the Holbein Gate and Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens are woven into a contemporary structure that resonates with historic meaning. A recycled stone façade, with its varied textures, ties the pavilion to nearby historical landmarks including Lambeth Palace and St. Mary’s Church. This design choice aligns with the studio’s broader philosophy of creating buildings that are both bold and nuanced, capable of making a strong statement while also engaging with the public in their environment, as well as a focus on the use of sustainable materials.
The interior spaces, including a store and a garden room, are tailored to support the museum’s horticultural activities and provide a comfortable environment for volunteers. Additionally, a first-floor cutting garden connects the pavilion to the Garden Museum’s botanical legacy, offering a unique space for cultivating plants. Going beyond the brief by incorporating a strong environmental strategy, the blue and green roof system supports biodiversity, manages rainwater, and contributes to the ecological health of Lambeth Green.
The Lambeth Green Pavilion is a thoughtful and clear expression of CHA’s values: a balance of historical sensitivity, expressive design, functionality and environmental responsibility. By blending these elements, the pavilion not only meets the brief but celebrates architecture’s cultural and social impact.
