Thatching - Modern Day

Afterparty by MOS at P.S.1


In 2009, MOS Architects won the competition to build a temporary pavilion installation at MoMA's P.S.1. The brief required the design to incorporate bar areas, seating, provide shade and incorporate water, it was also required that the designers experiment with new shapes and materials. It will be used as a venue for events during the summer.

MOS partners Hilary Sample and Michael Meredith explained that the design was to 'honour and reflect current economic realities by using basic materials.' The main structure of the pavilion is a recycled lightweight aluminium frame which are easily assembled, which is covered in thatched palm-fibre from Indonesia. 

This specific thatch is loose and has a softer texture than thatch used in the UK.

Air is drawn across troughs of water, which cools, and upwards through the narrow structures, which also provide shade for visitors.


The use of thatch in this modern design is very different from traditional use, but it suits the design and is extremely eco friendly.