The Pangolin Shield: A Pavilion in London Reinterpreting the Idea of Protection
Should a shield always be used to keep something out? What if the same form were used to bring people together?
Studio Saar and Atelier One Created by London Design Festival 2026 in London's Strand Aldwych area, The Pangolin Shield is a public pavilion that reinterprets the concept of conservation through architecture, craftsmanship, and history.
Traditional Indian police shields and knup , woven rain shields used by farmers in Northeast India, are placed on a bamboo lattice structure , forming the layered surface of the building. These surfaces, reminiscent of pangolin's protective scales, create plays of light and shadow while providing protection from both sun and rain.
“I wholeheartedly believe in the power of small things coming together: philosophically, politically and economically.” — Ananya Singhal, Studio Saar
But the true story of the project lies in the meanings conveyed by the materials. Located near the Indian High Commission and Somerset House, which is associated with colonial history, the pavilion invites reflection on authority, protection, and the legacy of colonialism. Shields, once associated with defense and power, are transformed here into symbols of mutual understanding and coexistence.
The pavilion, open on all four sides, has no door. Thus, instead of being an independent structure separated from the street, it becomes part of urban life. It's an unexpected stop for passersby, a brief resting place, and a meeting place that opens up space for different encounters.
The Pangolin Shield reminds us that protection in public spaces is not just a physical need; it can also be redefined through curiosity, dialogue, and coexistence.
Project Details
Project: The Pangolin Shield
Design: Studio Saar
Structural Engineering: Atelier One
Bamboo Fasteners: Developed with Node Company
Supporter: Secure
Event: London Design Festival 2026
Location: Strand Aldwych, London, United Kingdom
Photos: Taran Wilkhu.
Year: 2026
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