Created by artist Lauren MacDonald and named after a classic chess opening, this striking large-scale chessboard is inspired by the pavilion’s interplay of organic and geometric forms. 

Each chess piece is handcrafted from London Plane wood, sourced sustainably from a felled tree in nearby Kensington Park Gardens by Fallen and Felled. 

The chess pieces’ timeless forms are beautifully simplified. Half of the set is ebonised — a process that darkens the wood naturally —while the other half is treated with a protective, colourless oil. The result? A stunning contrast of textures and tones. 

Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious beginner, this interactive installation invites you to pause, reflect, and connect with others.

Lauren MacDonald is a London-based designer, author, and founder of the textile studio Working Cloth. Her work explores the intersections of craft, technology, and labour, with a focus on activities traditionally considered “women’s work.” 

She is the author of In Pursuit of Color (2023) and the upcoming Piece by Piece (May 2025). Lauren MacDonald collaborated with designer Jesse Beagley to bring her vision for the London System to life through expert craftsmanship.