Met gala's architect of spectacle returns – this time, it’s an enchanted forest

Raul Ávila, the mastermind behind some of the Met Gala’s most audacious installations, is back, and this year’s event promises to be a dramatic departure from the usual red-carpet theatrics. Forget floral explosions or papal crowns; Ávila and the Vogue special events team are transforming the Temple of Dendur into a bewitching, miniature forest for the 2026 iteration.

A decade of daring design

For over a decade, Ávila has consistently pushed the boundaries of event design, turning the Met Gala into a living, breathing art exhibition. From his initial, ambitious vision in 2007 – a 20-foot gilded birdcage housing live peacocks that, predictably, resulted in a chaotic chase – he’s steadily elevated the bar. The sheer scale and complexity of his creations are almost unbelievable; a 25-foot flamingo constructed from 30,000 flowers in 2019, a recreation of a papal crown in roses in 2018, and even rigging a London chandelier with razor blades in 2013 require a level of logistical and creative prowess rarely seen in the entertainment industry.

Beyond the spectacle: a history of innovation

Ávila’s approach isn’t simply about creating eye-catching displays. He consistently responds to the theme with a distinct, often subversive, interpretation. Remember the narcissus flower tower at Superfine in 2024, a direct nod to Cy Gavin’s motif and a commentary on self-recognition? Or the Chanel-themed night in 2005, the ‘Heavenly Bodies’ exploration of Fashion and faith in 2018, and the intricate recreations he’s conjured – exploring everything from punk aesthetics to the influence of Charles James. He doesn't just execute a theme; he dissects it, reinterprets it, and presents it as an immersive experience.

What’s next? ‘costume art’ takes center stage

This year’s theme, ‘Costume Art,’ suggests a shift towards a more conceptual approach. Ávila’s team is clearly embracing a narrative, building not just a spectacle, but a world. The precise details are still under wraps, but the transformation of the Temple of Dendur – a space steeped in history and mythology – into an enchanted forest hints at a deeply layered and meticulously crafted event. The 2026 Met Gala promises to be another moment of unforgettable extravagance, showcasing Ávila’s continued mastery of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. And, of course, you can watch the livestream on Vogue’s website.