Thorn and Zumtobel light New ‘Play Pavilion’ Commission by Sir Peter Cook for Serpentine and the LEGO Group

Thorn and Zumtobel are proud to continue their support for Serpentine’s 2025 programme with a lighting collaboration for the new Play Pavilion commission by pioneering British architect Sir Peter Cook, presented by Serpentine and the LEGO Group at Serpentine South this summer.

Unveiled on World Play Day on 11^th June, the Play Pavilion continues a new series of programmes presented by Serpentine welcoming families, younger audiences and teenagers, that is centred on the idea of engaging with activities for enjoyment and recreation.  Incorporating LEGO® Bricks into the design, the Play Pavilion will be an immersive environment where visitors can explore the creative power of play in three dimensions.

As lighting collaborators, Thorn and Zumtobel have worked closely with the project team to deliver a scheme that supports the Play Pavilion’s playful ethos while enhancing visitor experience. The lighting specification reflects the architectural expression of the structure – encouraging discovery, connection and delight through subtle visual cues and ambient effects.

A consistent selection of luminaires, including 17 Caelon S7i interior spotlights, has been used throughout the Play Pavilion. Chosen for their compact form and precise light control, the Caelon fittings contribute to a dynamic, yet sensitive lighting environment – guiding movement, highlighting textures, and revealing the building’s unique features.

Paul Kilburn, Managing Director at Thorn & Zumtobel – UK & Ireland, said: “This project celebrates the joy of exploration, imagination, and play – values that align beautifully with the way we think about light. We’re thrilled to support this vibrant commission, working once again with Serpentine to help bring an ambitious creative vision to life.”

Thorn and Zumtobel’s lighting expertise has supported the delivery of a scheme that balances form and function, bringing the Play Pavilion’s storytelling potential to life after dark. Their contribution reinforces a shared commitment to using light as a medium for engagement, emotion, and interaction.

Thorn and Zumtobel are proud to support this new phase of the Serpentine’s community-focused programme, which brings together architecture, design, and public engagement in meaningful ways. The Play Pavilion commission will remain open to the public until 10^th August 2025 and will host a series of live activations throughout the summer.

Image © Peter Cook (Peter Cook Studio Crablab). Courtesy Serpentine.