There are a number of annual events that we follow here at Inhabitat, but few are as exciting as the unveiling of the P.S.1 Young Architects Program winner. The combination of ephemeral architecture, great design, and sustainable building is irresistible to us, and this year is no exception. Conceived by MOS Architects, “Afterparty” is a commentary on the current economic crisis. Composed of recycled materials and thatching, the design comments upon the hangover that architecture is facing as a result of the previous years of excess.
In times of economic turmoil there is certainly something to be said for sobriety in design. Sure, Afterparty is an extreme combination of chimneys, ducts and vaults just as eclectic as any other seen at the P.S.1’s outdoor courtyard. But what is striking about this particular design is the lack of any, well, bling. The materials chosen are quite basic – a recycled aluminum framed structure covered by thatching with a bit of concrete here and there.
The conical shapes will provide much needed shade, and even work to provide passive ventilation to the occupants of the courtyard via a stack effect generated thanks to the courtyard’s shaded concrete walls and water troughs. The shapes are meant to recall the fading factory typology of long island’s industrial past. According to MOS, the installation is a commentary on the hangover that architecture is facing after the extreme shapes of the past, structure’s lack of humanity, and the excessive use of high-tech materials. The exhibit will open in June in New York City.
+ P.S.1 Young Architects Program
I think this installment is really interesting. Everything from the title of the work to the use of materials and the shape of the cones alludes to the problems that past architecture methods have created. Due to the excessiveness of previous architecture habits, coupled with the present economic crisis, this model aims to be as practical as possible. Overall, the feel of the construction is natural and mundane without losing creativity; the shapes are organic, the materials environmentally friendly, and so on. Job well done – thanks for this post !