As part of Olympia’s grand transformation in west London, renowned Austrian-Japanese designer Rio Kobayashi has created LDF’s first pavilion, which is situated in Olympia, west London, in partnership with the engineers Webb Yates. This creative project, running from September 14th to February 28th, symbolizes a fusion of art, culture, and sustainability.

Drawing inspiration from local architecture and the wooden structures of his childhood in Japan, Kobayashi has created a timber and stone sway frame, constructed without screws or joints and assembled with weighted, clamped or pre-stressed standard off-the-shelf components — which means it can be dismantled and re-used after the festival. The pavilion will house new work by fellow designers and craftspeople, starting with the artist and plant biologist Cynthia Fan, who last year completed her doctorate in plant molecular science at the University of Edinburgh/Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh.

Beyond its structural innovation, the pavilion becomes a hub for community engagement. Its “On The Shelf” program offers a rich lineup of exhibitions, performances, and workshops, turning the space into a dynamic environment that encourages interaction and creativity. The “Off The Shelf” pavilion is part of Olympia’s broader transformation, with the aim of becoming London’s new cultural hotspot, a place where innovation and the arts thrive.

Visit the pavilion and it's events until the 28th of February. For more information click here.