MPavilion is an Australian architectural commission and design event that annually erects a new temporary pavilion, designed by a leading international architect, in Melbourne’s historic Queen Victoria Gardens.
This year's structure, designed by OMA, is inspired by ancient amphitheaters. Blurring the lines between the inside and outside – and between audience and performer, OMA's pavilion creates a flexible civic space that can function as a stage, auditorium or even a playground.

Echoing the ideals of amphitheater typology, the pavilion comprises static and dynamic elements that allow for multiple configurations.

"The pavilion’s ground plan is shaped by two grand stands; one
fixed, the other movable, which together determine the setup of the performance space. The larger static grand stand is excavated from the surrounding landscape and embedded in 12 different species of indigenous plants, giving a sense of the Australian setting. The smaller grandstand can rotate, allowing it to shift functions from seating to stage and blur the distinction between actor and audience."

"The main infrastructure of the pavilion, such as lighting and hanging points is placed in the floating roof, a 2-meter-high mechanical grid structure made of aluminum-clad steel. The mechanics in the canopy can be activated per the type of event taking place; an open-air venue for performances, entertainment and sports."

Of the MPavilion 2017 design, Rem Koolhaas and David Gianotten add: “MPavilion is a project that hopes to provoke discussion around what architecture can do both globally and in an Australian context. We’re interested in treating this pavilion not just as an architectural object, but as something that injects intensity into a city and contributes to an ever-evolving culture.”

The construction of MPavilion will begin in August. Open to the public from October through February, it will later be moved to a permanent new home within Melbourne's City Centre.