ARCHITECTURE

Circle Shade

ARCHITECTURE

Circle Shade

Circle Shade is an innovative award-winning canopy system and finalist of Architizer A+ Awards 2019, outdoor furniture category. The name captures the shape of the canopy and the function it serves. The design received a patent in 2019.

The project won the Folly/Function 2017 competition in New York City. The program called for four demountable structures to populate a highly active park, for adaptable use, and assembly in 10-15 minutes by one to two people.

Circle Shade synthesizes a renewal of the umbrella shade and mobile tent structures. It eliminates the center pole common for opening and closing parasols, and offers a more uncluttered alternative to square tents. Counterweights that compensate for wind, integrate as outdoor furniture.

With the challenges of climate change, and a more urgent need for protection against the sun’s harmful rays, the system offers a new type of space for improved outdoor living. It is flexible, portable and integrates in commercial, institutional and residential spaces with ease.

Circle Shade is designed as a refined Kit of Parts for quick assembly, and with flat pack delivery in mind. The design vocabulary is minimal and clean, composed of two fundamental geometries: the circle and the triangle. These two define the design DNA in form through detail.

The structural system was designed in collaboration with engineers. It is based on the “tripod” structural concept, and designed with rigid moment-frame joint connections. Technical considerations, with a high level of design detail, were meticulously applied throughout.

Each shade unit consists of a combination of three main components, and only 7 parts: 1 circular canopy, 3 tripod support poles and 3 cylindrical counterweights.

The circular canopy easily connects with the poles using custom designed and high strength 3D printed joint nodes. These are variably detailed and interlaced with the shade membrane. A canopy pitch is established through the use of one shorter pole and two longer, and the final assembled unit is held in place with only six quick release T-handle pins. Assembly of a unit can be done in less than 5 minutes by 1 to 2 people.

A single unit anchors a space, and the concrete counterweights serve as a seat, back rest, tabletop and even a step stool for easy set up. The canopy also provides an opportunity for branding in public spaces, and is circular, and therefore easy to roll for mobility.

Circle Shade is a new mobile canopy system. The structure sets up for use as single unit or in clusters for gatherings and social events. Used in both public and private realms, it can serve a range of needs. It set ups beautifully in parks, gardens, and urban environments including campuses, hospitality and entertainment venues. Perfect for offering shade and sun protection for young school children, and delightful when used poolside or on the waterfront.

In sequence the structures create a dynamic environment in open constellation. The playfulness is transmitted through sculpted spaces, and the dichotomy of the structure, as light and airy yet grounded. When seated people become part of the counterweight structure. The open views and unique atmosphere beneath the canopies invite people to connect and engage in communal spaces while the many counterweight formations also allow individuals to seek a moment of respite.

Awards: Architizer A+Awards 2019 Finalist, Outdoor Furniture
Location: New York, NY
Size: Dia.: Dia.: 8 Ft., H. Max: 7’-9”, H. Min. 7’-0”,
Services: Architecture and Design
Consultants: Prototype Structural Engineering: Laufs Engineering Design, LLC
Photography: Jonathan Pilkington Photographer and Eva Christine Jensen