Grand designs “clouded” over exhibition hubs – in an energised way - at 100% Design in London

A visit to the 100% Design exhibition at London’s Earls Court a couple of days ago provided not just design trend inspiration but also an intriguing experience.  I found this cloud-like structure that was hovering above the Kitchens & Bathrooms Hub at the 100% Design show in Earls Court, London. 

The Foam Dome was created on commission by vPPR Architects, according to show director William Knight.

The giodesic dome,  playful yet inspiring for the space below it, was covered in white mesh and would periodically emit foam from soap, water and air, to comprise a breathing membrane.  It was sponsored by Turkishceramics  thus it hovered over white ceramic products from the brand to reinforce the spa aesthetic.

According to Director of vPPR Architects, Jessica Reynolds, the Foam Dome was designed around the idea of cleanliness, referencing an indulgent, purifying spa experience. 

Also featured along the Turkishceramics white products were fluffy white cotton towels by Imabari Towel Japan to complement the spa experience.  Nearby the Imabori stand provided a unique Japanese experience.  

Elsewhere at this 20th anniversary 100% Design,  international architecture and design practice NBBJ showcased iAlter at the Workplace Hub, an outsized installation suspended from the ceiling that responds to the people walking under it.  

The structure was made up of hundreds of cardboard tubes, and the shape of this formation would change to different shapes.  While it hovered above like a cloud, it felt like the tubes were raining down as the shape changed into different formations.  As explained by the studio's principal David Lewis, this interactive installation was inspired by the simplicity of kinetic sculpture and the complexity of computer-generated design algorithms,  and it flexes in response to the flow of people and gently encourages serendipitous encounters, he said.

It would be interesting to see how many workplaces out there would afford this kind of height to provide stimulation to the work force.  But show director William Knight said design in the workspace is a key area that has seen a growing demand in recent years,  He offered that an office is no longer just a place where people work, it is also a hub where we exchange ideas and inspire each other.

NBBJ is currently designing innovative workspaces for clients that include Samsung, Amazon and Google.

All photos by Lucia Carpio for My Fashion Connect.