The Music Pavilion

SHH Architecture & Interiors has just completed the design of a new private Music Pavilion, set within the garden of a beautiful estate in Surrey which has been crafted to deliver an unparalleled music experience ideal for an audiophile's dream. This newly constructed building exemplifies the seamless fusion of architectural innovation and outstanding acoustic performance.

Pawel Nawojczyk, Director of Architecture says, “Our journey with the owners began several years ago with the renovation of their main house in Surrey. We were captivated by their bold vision and unique approach to their environment, which exudes originality and inspiration. We were thrilled to have the opportunity to collaborate on this exciting new addition to their estate. The Music Pavilion transcended its initial purpose, evolving into a versatile space perfect for work, relaxation, and inspiration. This project reminded us why we ventured into design—creating spaces that resonate with passion and purpose.”

The music pavilion seamlessly integrates with the existing property through its materiality, scale, and modern twist on traditional geometry. The complex design needed to meet stringent acoustic requirements, not only providing the highest quality of music listening, but also optimal sound separation from the outside in both directions. This intricate task involved collaboration with specialist acoustic designers to perfect the geometry, scale, proportions, acoustic attenuation, service buffering, delicate balance between acoustic absorption and acoustic transparency.
Every aspect of the pavilion has been meticulously considered, from intricate joinery, advanced integration and controls, sophisticated lighting, climate control including electric shading, ASHP energy-efficient heating, to integrated fire safety and security systems. Window shading, though not initially requested by the client, became a functional necessity due to the substantial glazing. The bespoke approach to window dressing ensures integration, aesthetic coherence, and maintainability, addressing the risk of glare and solar gain.

The Music Pavilion is a space where every detail has been considered to create an environment that is as inspiring as it is functional. The use of Japanese charred timber and Corten steel enriches the composition with texture and colour while the living wall and roof, helps blend the pavilion into its natural surroundings, enhancing biodiversity.
Lauren Crossman Senior Interior Designer at SHH says, “The interior is a vibrant showcase of the owner’s international lifestyle, love of music, art, and colour. The extensive collection of ancient artifacts takes centre stage in the joinery, with each piece highlighted by careful lighting. The vibrant colourways are balanced by natural hues and materials, ensuring harmony throughout.

Flexible architectural and task lighting enhances the space without overwhelming it, bringing out contrasts and colours that make the design come alive. Natural light floods the pavilion through large glazed panes, altering the perception of the interiors throughout the day and emulating a sun clock, allowing observers to witness the passage of time. A 32-piece pendant display, hung at varying heights, creates an artistic reflection of water droplets through light and shadow play across the floor, with added magic from the AV and lighting specialists.

The design reflects the client’s aesthetic preferences and character, and the requirements of sound performance, ensuring a harmonious interaction between these elements.