The Carbon Garden & Pavilion

Rooted within this Carbon Garden of nature-based solutions, the Pavilion, designed by Mizzi Studio, aims to inspire visitors to reimagine our relationship with the natural world. Symbolising the magical symbiotic relationship between plants and fungi, the structure appears to grow organically out of the garden—like a fungal fruiting body—enveloping visitors under its sweeping, forward-tilted ‘carnivorous-plant’ canopy. This elegant form is supported by a central timber trunk and a delicate, vein-like structural system.

Kew’s brief called for a pavilion to sit within the new, permanent Carbon Garden, forming a landscape of education and exploration focused on carbon’s role in our environment and its deep links to the climate crisis.

Nature-inspired solutions

Mizzi has designed a pavilion that wholly embodies the principles it champions. Using a palette of sustainably sourced materials, low-carbon stone foundations, and an innovative natural fibre composite canopy inspired by the pitcher plant, the structure even captures rainwater to feed the surrounding rain garden. Working closely with Atelier One on the structural engineering, the Pavilion is designed as an open, organic structure, welcoming school visits and community activities while serving as an immersive learning environment. The Carbon Garden is designed to inspire action, inviting visitors to become advocates for nature and empowering them with everyday solutions to support the health of our planet.

‍