Revealed at the Melbourne Cup Carnival at Flemington Racecourse in Australia, this new Lexus showroom/pavilion redefines ‘Green Design.’ Created by Koichi Takada Architects, the three-floor modular structure is a living entity adorned with over 1,000 native Australian plants, forming a stunning visual connection with the landscape. Named “LANDMARK by Lexus,” the pavilion is a result of a collaboration with the Victoria Racing Club, focusing on the theme ‘Close to the Source’ this year. What sets it apart is its modular and repurposable design, allowing it to transform annually with changing themes. Although emphasizing Australian flora this year, the sustainably-built structure can be disassembled and rearranged for the next year’s theme, enabling it to evolve with minimal impact.
Koichi Takada sees his architecture as a “living billboard,” showcasing the potential of incorporating nature into our built surroundings. His perspective highlights the joy and significance of reconnecting with nature, particularly in urban areas. According to him, the pavilion serves as a demonstration of what can be accomplished by combining architecture with the natural world, emphasizing the emotional and psychological advantages of this integration.
Visitors are encouraged to interact with the plants on the exterior, which consist of edible native flora such as native pepper, saltbush, and lemon myrtle. This interactive feature is meant to engage the senses, inviting guests to touch, smell, and even taste the vegetation. It beautifully captures the essence of Australian bush tucker.
