Ambient Light
Mentioned Project for the Chicago Architecture Biennial 2015 Lakefront Kiosk Competition
Waterfronts are special places. A meeting point between earth and sea, the horizon is exposed. More than elsewhere the sky is present; it illuminates,
and color permeates the place. Ambient Light aims to exacerbate this feeling by framing the views and accentuating the light of the moment.
A translucent fabric filter diffuses the light, revealing the average color of the sky. This veil delimits the space and generates privacy. The fabric masks some of the context to better reveal its brightness.
Inside, a suspended fabric ring provides shade. The center of the roof is open to expose the sky. All you can see and connect with is the horizon and the sky.
The veil creates a sense of intimacy within the space, be it a market, café, cinema, or exhibition. The space is versatile. A miniature piazza is created.
The kiosk is made of lightweight materials, steel tubes and fabric cables. The circular shape of the building redirects and compensates easily for the structural tensions. Many elements echo the waterfront: sail, kite, nets, ropes.
For each event, specific furniture will be used to match the purpose. Outside of opening hours the counter closes like a strongbox. Inbuilt anchorage points allow for the chaining of the furniture overnight. The kiosk remains accessible to the public as a tool to reveal the color of the place.