mobile lanterns transform paris’ neglected public spaces into multifunctional platforms

the luminous installation under the city's aerial subway lines transforms into various uses including a playground area, a green space with vegetation, temporary accommodation for refugees.

WEEK edited by sofia lekka angelopoulou April 27, 2018 2 min

1week1project proposes ‘illuminate paris!’, a series of mobile lanterns that adapt to various scenarios, from offering a playground area for kids, to a green space with vegetation for pedestrians and temporary accommodation for refugees. supporting the city’s and the various associations’ approach towards the migration crisis, the installation creates a field of experiences, unifying and open to all, in order to influence people’s vision and practices in the urban realm.

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the lanterns located between jaures and stalingrad station

through 1week1project, axel de stampa and sylvain macaux challenge themselves to produce one spontaneous project per week in collaboration with professionals from various disciplines. this time, working with sophie picoty, the team proposes a simple solution to reclaim public spaces under the aerial subway lines of paris.

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the circular structure, made out of coil spring bamboo tubes and recycled, transparent polypropylene canvas, unfolds with a simple pulling rope. acting as urban lighting at night, the lanterns become organic architecture during the day offering a fun and safe way to walk while entertaining and promoting social connection, cultural exchange and collective activities.

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during night time, the lanterns illuminate the public spaces

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inside the lanterns, various activities can take place

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day time

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project info:

project name: illuminate paris!

design team: axel de stampa, sylvain macaux, sophie picoty, natalia fuentes

location: under the aerial line subway stations, paris, france

type: temporary urban furniture

area: 12,5sqm

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.