Urban Platform: A Flexible and Immersive Experience

Transforming Scaffolding into a Unique Public Space

The Urban Platform, designed by Bumjin Kim & Minyoung Kim, reimagines scaffolding as a versatile and immersive structure that enhances the urban experience. With its unique design and adaptability, this project offers a new way to interact with the city.

Scaffolding has long been used as a temporary structure during construction, but the Urban Platform takes it a step further. The designers saw the potential for scaffolding to not only be efficient but also provide a flexible space for various activities. By utilizing this familiar material, the Urban Platform seamlessly blends into its surroundings while offering a range of experiences.

The goal of the project is to capture the essence of the city with minimal interference to its surroundings. The structure is designed to be invisible from a distance, allowing the focus to remain on the cityscape. Visitors can relax, play, watch, listen, and sit on the platform, immersing themselves in the urban environment. The Urban Platform is composed of five different modules: Steps, Stage, Void, Enclosed Space, and Viewpoint, each offering a unique perspective and purpose.

One of the key strengths of the Urban Platform is its adaptability. The structure can transform into a fully immersive environment for events and activities, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding area. It can be easily assembled and disassembled, making it a versatile solution for various settings and events. The elevated public platform allows people to experience the space and environment beneath it, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

The Urban Platform, with a plot size of 2100 sqm and a built-up area of 172 sqm, is constructed using aluminum tubes. This choice of material ensures durability and stability while maintaining a lightweight and flexible structure.

Designed by Bumjin Kim and Minyoung Kim, the Urban Platform offers a new way to interact with the city. Its five different elements - Steps, Stage, Void, Enclosed Space, and Viewpoint - allow for a wide range of activities and events, making it an exciting place to visit. Whether it's a performance, exhibition, or simply a place to relax and enjoy the surroundings, the Urban Platform provides a unique and immersive experience.

The project is located in the city of Lisbon, Portugal, a city with a rich history and architecture. The Urban Platform draws inspiration from the city's dynamic views and the experience of walking tours. By creating a structure that seamlessly integrates with the urban environment, the designers have provided a new way to explore and engage with the city.

The Urban Platform was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2015 in the Architecture, Building, and Structure Design category. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skill, contributing to improvements in quality of life. The Urban Platform's innovative approach to utilizing scaffolding as a flexible and immersive structure sets it apart from other designs in its category.

With its unique design, adaptability, and immersive experience, the Urban Platform offers a fresh perspective on public spaces. By transforming scaffolding into a versatile structure, Bumjin Kim and Minyoung Kim have created a space that allows visitors to truly experience the city and all it has to offer.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Bumjin Kim
Image Credits: Bumjin Kim, Minyoung Kim
Project Team Members: Bumjin Kim, Minyoung Kim
Project Name: Urban Platform
Project Client: Bumjin Kim


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