this is what’s left of the annual practical review of student work held at the AA — the architectural association — or, more precisely, held outside the organisation’s headquarters in bedford square each summer. this striking piece, which is now showing distinct signs of environmental attrition, can still be seen, and stands starkly fluid and organic against the sober neo-classical confines of the square’s georgian architecture.
a delightful surprise to come across this oddity on a rainy september afternoon in bloomsbury. information from the architectural association press release below:
Driftwood was designed by concept designer Danecia Sibingo a 3rd year student, and a team that includes Lyn Hayek, Yoojin Kim, and Taeyoung Lee. It is neither art nor architecture, science nor ecological adventure, but a sculptural installation and prototype that defies classification. It embraces invention, experimentation, new materials and aesthetic intelligence. The pavilion was selected by a panel of seven eminent judges from the worlds of architecture, engineering, design, media and ecology. It provides a thoughtful, provoking reminder of the UK’s inextricable link to the sea — its undulating form created by the motion of the water, carried by waves and coming to rest in busy central London