Leading British cultural organizations Living Architecture and Artangel recently commissioned a special project entitled “A Room for London”. 500 architects from around the world rose to the challenge to design a one-bedroom installation that would stand atop the Queen Elizabeth Hall at Southbank Centre. The winning design was a boat-like structure by David Kohn Architects and artist Fiona Banner. The design will be featured in the London 2012 Festival.
Crafted out of timber, the structure consists of lower and upper decks that offer panoramic views of London from Big Ben to St. Paul’s Cathedral. As guests arrive on board this masterpiece, a nautical flag goes up indicating occupation. Before leaving, they are asked to fill in a log of their experiences on the bridge of this boat-like structure. The architectural style is contemporary and playful.
Another interesting piece of urban architecture was the shape-shifting room by Spanish architects Sanzports. This installation was designed to change according to the time of day, as well as according to the changing seasons. All day, the room is sunlit. At night, LEDs light up the structure. At bedtime, it resembles a cozy cocoon, with a starry night sky projected on its walls. The structure is sustainable as well. It uses recycled plastic lumber, has a wastewater garden on the roof and houses rainwater harvesting facilities.
Sadly, the shape-shifting room may not be available just yet, but by September this year, bookings open for the timber boat creation by David Kohn and Fiona Banner. Hurry to book yourself in for a night between January and December 2012 at this fine example of urban architecture.
