A new eye-catcher for St John’s Hospital Park
Inspired by the density of Bruges’ street plan, Shingo Masuda and Katsuhisa Otsubo have constructed a new, open ‘place’ for the city in St John’s Hospital Park. Their geometric, brick-built sculpture subtracts ground from the historical orchard while also lending it structure. Here, the architects play with the concept of ‘free’ or undefined space and its absence in the city’s geography, where every corner is well-defined.
Departing from the question “Is it truly necessary?”, the Japanese firm examines the concept of space. Should architects keep adding to what already exists, or can they think differently about architecture and its place in the world?
Using a familiar local material – brick – and the city’s colour palette, Shingo Masuda + Katsuhisa Otsubo Architects have created a new abode that transcends the seasons.
The work contrasts with the functional city and creates a place where people can gather, for encounters and loosing oneself. empty drop: a celebration of emptiness in the busy pattern of Bruges.
