ström architects: a room for london

UK-based studio ström architects has participated in living architecture’s ‘a room for london’ competition. the project – a temporary structure for one to two overnight guests — will remain of the roof of the queen elizabeth hall in london for the year of the 2012 olympics. the proposal aims to be dramatic when viewed from the street below while at the same time providing the inhabitants with a private and sheltered space for reflection and contemplation.

the long tube that cantilevers five meters over the edge of the building acts as a theatrical gesture, evoking a sense of wonder when viewed from below. clad in wrinkled aluminum, the facade of the building continuously alters and it plays with changing reflections and light conditions. 

all images courtesy of ström architects

manufactured from 120mm thick cross laminated timber, the rectangular unit is comprised of a simple structural tube that counterbalances wind forces and any imposed loads. the prefabricated tube arrives on site as four components — two walls, a roof and a floor – where it is then fully assembled.

further transforming the environment is a thin layer of water, spread across the existing concrete roof in its entirety. the newly generated reflecting pool creates an private atmosphere that is largely differs from what is expected when viewed from ground level. the structure is then accessed by a footbridge which further accentuates the room as a retreat. inside, the design reveals that construction of the dwelling with exposed cross laminated panel that have been whitewashed to provide a calming atmosphere.

interior view

the sleeping area faces east and turns its back on the city and busy river frontage, instead overlooking the man-made pond that provides the user with a more peaceful environment as they withdraw.

view from the street and floorplan

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