thomas stevenson: bivouac new york

the project first came about when I noticed that new york city’s streets and buildings were densely populated, though the rooftops offered a vast landscape of open space. as installation and performance artist ny work deals with issues of hospitality and the value of face to face relationships, I set to work on designing a full-service rooftop camp site.

bivouac new york is composed of 5 lean-to tents, a canteen with a kitchen and library. the bivouac is part hotel, part nomadic adventure. it asks guests to not only change their perspective, but also their routine as the site does not have wifi nor electricity.

using a lap joint and notch system the modular plywood frame work of a tent can be assembled in approximately 20 minutes with 2 people and a simple rubber mallet. the entire campsite, 5 tents and the canteen, flat packs and can be up and running in under 2 hours. the tents covers are built from rain-resistant canvas and the bedding/ sleeping area is 1 inch recycled industrial felt. the communal eating table and benches in the canteen are from reclaimed demolished new york city factories.

http://www.bivouacnyc.com