The Color Symphony pavilion, designed by the visionary duo Ho Wang Owen Lam and Pui Sze Kong, is a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of Hong Kong. The structure, composed of layers of colorful acrylic panels, captures and refracts sunlight to paint the ground with a mosaic of hues, offering a festive retreat for the public. Drawing inspiration from the city's dynamic spirit, the pavilion stands as a symbol of diversity, energy, and a collective leap towards positivity post-pandemic.
What sets Color Symphony apart is its transformative quality. As daylight transitions from dawn to dusk, the pavilion's appearance evolves, offering an ever-changing spectacle of light and shadow. This interplay of elements creates a living artwork, an interactive experience that invites visitors to immerse themselves in a dance of colors reminiscent of floating bubbles and shifting clouds. The design's strength lies in its ability to engage and captivate, making it a unique urban oasis.
The realization of this design was a meticulous process, with careful consideration given to the production of each component. The white frame structure and acrylic panels were crafted based on precise design specifications, ensuring the installation's integrity and durability. Collaboration between designers and production teams was crucial to bring the concept to life, ensuring that the final structure not only met aesthetic standards but was also feasible to produce and install within the bustling environment of a landmark shopping mall.
Spanning an area of 180 square meters and reaching a height of 8 meters, the pavilion's design specifications were tailored to create an immersive environment without overwhelming the space. Keywords such as "floating," "colorful," "symphony," "shading," and "reflection" encapsulate the essence of this design, highlighting its ability to harmonize with its surroundings while providing a sense of escape and wonder.
The interaction with Color Symphony is intuitive and organic. Visitors are drawn into a playful and joyous space, where the varying heights of the panels and the structural design contribute to a layered and multidimensional experience. This design not only supports the physical structure but also enhances the visual narrative, inviting the public to engage with the installation throughout the summer season.
From inception in March to completion in August 2023, the project's timeframe was a testament to the team's dedication and efficiency. The design research acknowledged the community's desire for a vibrant and welcoming public space, especially significant as the world emerged from the shadow of the pandemic. Overcoming creative and technical challenges, the team successfully integrated the installation into the shopping mall's ecosystem, enhancing the visitor experience without disrupting the mall's operations.
Color Symphony has been recognized with a Bronze A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, a distinction that celebrates its innovative design and contribution to enhancing quality of life. The pavilion stands as a shining example of how art, architecture, and design can converge to create spaces that uplift the human spirit and foster community engagement.
Project Designers: afloat studio
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Ho Wang Owen LAM, Color Symphony 1, 2023.
Image #2: Photographer Ho Wang Owen LAM, Color Symphony 2, 2023.
Image #3: Photographer Ho Wang Owen LAM, Color Symphony 3, 2023.
Image #4: Photographer Ho Wang Owen LAM, Color Symphony 4, 2023.
Image #5: Photographer Ho Wang Owen LAM, Color Symphony 5, 2023.
Project Team Members: Designer: Ho Wang Owen LAM
Designer: Pui Sze Jessica KONG
Project Name: Color Symphony
Project Client: Elements