A2 Art Square, XML in their proposal for the West Kowloon Cultural District have reimagined the Miesian pavilion typology. The classical pavilion by Mies Van de Rohe consists basically of a glass box. In reimagining it, XML architects proposed a glass box with a sloping roof that has added function as a living arts space.
The inner spaces of the pavilion house the classical exhinbition spaces at 4.5 metres high. The flexibility designed into the pavilion inner spaces allows for easy rearrangement to suit a variety of functions. As it it situated on a waterfront, the canopy here slopes downwards forming a series of stairs which can be used as an outdoor performing arts space. In that way, the pavilion serves both from the inside and the outside. The added advantage of the sloping canopy is that it prevents direct sunlight impact to the interior exhibition spaces.
Structurally, care has been taken to make it minimal as possible by randomly placing load bearing elements that unobstruct space. The minimal design ethos is pushed further by organizing the interior secondary programs like offices and toilets in a rectangular core that is located to the west of the building therby allowing for ample exhibition space. With the materials used, the architects also took care to allow industrial inexpensive ones so that art could be nailed, pinned or painted accordingly. The pavilion will surely add more to the waterfront art life.
Hassan Yakubu is an editor at Arch2O with a deep academic and professional background in architecture, planning, and urban infrastructure. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Cornell University, his editorial focus spans climate urbanism, sustainability transitions, and the intersection of infrastructure and STS. Hassan brings a sharp critical lens shaped by fieldwork in Accra and policy research across Africa. With prior experience leading pedagogical initiatives and contributing to architectural practices in Rabat and Accra, his writing brings clarity, academic depth, and a global perspective to contemporary urban issues and design thinking.