Padiglione Tavolara

Dedicated to the artist and designer Eugenio Tavolara, the Padiglione Tavolara is one of Sardinia's most significant examples of modern architecture. Designed by Cagliari-based architect Ubaldo Badas and inaugurated in 1956, the pavilion originally housed ISOLA (Istituto Sardo Organizzazione Lavoro Artigianale), the institution that promoted Sardinian craftsmanship internationally through exhibitions and cultural initiatives.

Following an extensive restoration, the building is being transformed into a museum of craft and design, bringing together the largest public collection of works by Tavolara alongside the historic ISOLA collection. Spanning 3,000 square metres over two floors, the pavilion is distinguished by its Neoliberty architecture, colourful decorative details, and seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Its collections include ceramics, textiles, jewellery, basketry, and other examples of Sardinian craftsmanship, celebrating the island's rich artistic and artisanal heritage.