Ω (Oxygen-18)

Ω stands for Oxygen-18.
Oxygen was our main source of inspiration for the modular pavilion we designed in collaboration with Fibreacoustics for the 2018 edition of the art fair UNFAIR.
We aimed to create a versatile stage for each of the 40 invited artists, providing at the same time an immersive experience for the visitors. The rhythm of the visitor’s journey alternating between enclosed and open spaces was inspired by the Giardini of the Venice Biennale and based on the harmonious breathing sequence of inhalation and exhalation that naturally occurs in that place.
As oxygen molecules, the modular shells bond with each others forming a balanced variable ecosystem. They shift following a regular grid generated by the hexagonal tessellation of the historical venue, the Zuiveringshal at the Westerpark in Amsterdam, based on its unveiled precise geometrical proportions.
All the materials used for the design are highly sustainable and recyclable: the easy-to-assemble modular pinewood gridshell is covered with recycled coconut and jute fibers, hardened with corn-starch-based bio-plastic and painted with water-based white paint.
The natural look gives the space a warm feel and improves its acoustics due to the porosity of the bio-material, enhancing the immersive cocoon-like experience.