Audi and Zaha Hadid Architects unveil Origin pavilion at Milan Design Week
Audi has collaborated with Zaha Hadid Architects to design Origin, a pavilion for Milan Design Week 2026. Set in the courtyard of the former Archiepiscopal Seminary, now known as the Portrait Hotel, the structure showcases sleek lines and matte titanium finishes that stand in stark contrast to the surrounding Renaissance architecture. Its reflective surfaces play with light, creating dynamic shadows throughout the day. Audi envisions Origin as a symbol of its future, drawing inspiration from clarity, emotion, and intelligence. The installation seeks to provide visitors a respite from sensory overload. Origin is unveiled alongside Audi's entry into Formula 1 with the Audi R26 and the introduction of the RS 5, featuring a honeycomb grille, airflow panels, and Matrix LED headlights. It will be open until April 26 at Portrait Milano, Corso Venezia, Milan. Photography by Antonis Hadjimichael.
Key facts
- Audi partnered with Zaha Hadid Architects for the Origin installation at Milan Design Week 2026.
- The pavilion is located in the courtyard of Milan's former Archiepiscopal Seminary, now the Portrait Hotel.
- Origin features sleek lines and matt titanium surfaces contrasting with Renaissance architecture.
- The reflective surface creates changing shadows and reflections throughout the day.
- Audi describes Origin as a portal to the brand's future, inspired by clarity, emotion, and intelligence.
- The installation addresses sensory overload and offers a space for pause.
- Origin coincides with Audi's first Formula 1 entry with the Audi R26 and the launch of the RS 5.
- The RS 5 features a honey-comb grille, airflow panels, and Matrix LED headlights with a checkered-flag design.
Entities
Artists
- Zaha Hadid Architects
- Antonis Hadjimichael
Institutions
- Audi
- Dezeen
- Portrait Hotel
- Portrait Milano
Locations
- Milan
- Italy
- Corso Venezia
Sources
- Dezeen —