explore tadao ando's MPavilion 10 in melbourne through the lens of danica o. kus

DANICA O. KUS PHOTOGRAPHS TADAO ANDO’S MPAVILION 10

In her latest photographic project, Danica O. Kus embarks on a journey to Melbourne, Australia, to capture the tenth MPavilion by renowned architect Tadao Ando. The structure is Ando’s first project in Australia and, with its 14.4-meter, aluminum-coated disc canopy, demonstrates his trademark geometric integration into the natural environment. MPavilion 10 embodies Ando’s vision of creating a remarkable structure that blends into the landscape, striving for a spatial purity through the strategic use of circles and squares that evokes a sense of harmony with nature.

all images courtesy of Danica O. Kus

‘a space to reflect, interact and appreciate…’

In the series, Danica O. Kus (find more here) captures the pavilion comprehensively, highlighting both its structural intricacies and poetic nuances. Tadao Ando’s approach involves a deep connection to the memory of the place, transcending individual emotions to embrace a broader social dimension.

‘I wanted to create an experience that will last forever in the hearts of all who visit,’ the architect shares. ‘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.’

The design showcases a prominent feature— the aluminum disc resting on a central column. Meanwhile, offset squares form two entrances leading to the central area. Varying lengths of concrete walls partially enclose the space, creating a sanctuary reminiscent of a Japanese walled garden. In Ando’s words, it’s ‘a space to reflect, interact and appreciate that which is contained within, be it nature, art or people. A horizontal opening along both north and south walls frames views of Melbourne’s skyline and parklands, establishing a connection between the city, Queen Victoria Gardens, and the pavilion’s interior. The geometric forms and symmetry are accentuated by an internal arrangement—half-paved and half-reflecting pool—mirroring the canopy, sky, city, and surroundings.

the geometric MPavilion 10 by Tadao Ando

‘The consistent factor in my work is my interest in light,’ Ando says. ‘For MPavilion, the spatial sequence of circles and squares will create spatial sequences of light and dark. These will change during the day and seasons as the sun moves through the sky. The surfaces the light touches will also change—walls will reveal arresting patterns of shadow, while the water from the reflecting pool may cast dappled patterns on a previously plain surface.’

‘Tadao Ando’s architecture is remarkable because it radically affects the way we perceive the world around us,’ mentions Naomi Milgrom AC, founder of the Naomi Milgrom Foundation and commissioner of MPavilion 10. ‘Like Ando, I am passionate about architecture that promotes public life and social interaction—and I’m thrilled that Australians will be able to directly experience his genius through this incredibly special space for conversation, exchange and contemplation.’

a horizontal opening along both north and south walls frames views of Melbourne’s skyline