Chicago Architecture Biennial Lakefront Kiosk Competition

AMBIENT LIGHT
Project for a kiosk on the lakefront of Chicago.

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. The project 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; market, cafe, cinema, or exhibition. The space is versatile. A miniature piazza is created.
The kiosk is made of lightweight structure, steel tube and fabric cable. The circular shape of the building redirects and compensates easily for the structural tensions. Many elements echoe the waterfront. Sail, kite, nets, ropes.
Each event will be created by using specific furniture that matches the purpose. Out of opening hours the counter closes like a strong box. Inbuilt anchorage points allow for the chaining of the funiture overnight.
The kiosk remains accessible to the public as a tool to reveal the color of the place.

Guillaume Mazars