Waugh Thistleton's timber pavilion at Topkapı Palace explores transience

London-based Waugh Thistleton Architects has unveiled Pavilion of the Moment, a temporary timber structure for Global Design Forum Istanbul. Located in the grounds of Topkapı Palace next to Hagia Irene, Istanbul's oldest church, the cube-shaped pavilion features a spherical interior created by tapered wooden walls. Built from Turkey-grown pine planks arranged in a lattice, the 6x6-metre structure is designed to be demountable and was assembled by hand in four days due to site restrictions. The ends of vertical boards are stained ochre, referencing the 18th-century Turkey red dye technique. Inside, a square skylight and concentric floor and ceiling boards create a meditative space. The pavilion responds to the forum's theme 'Praise of Transience', as commissioned by artistic director Melek Zeynep Bulut. It is the first contemporary installation within the palace complex. Waugh Thistleton collaborated with the Turkish National Wood Association. The firm is known for pioneering mass-timber projects including Murray Grove and Dalston Works. The pavilion was on view from 14-15 May 2026.