117,539 individual face masks comprise 'face to face' curtain installation

influenced by the impact of the global pandemic, convergent architecture studio (CAS) introduces ‘face to face’, an innovative installation made out of face masks. the unique spatial project repurposes face coverings as a core building material, while encapsulating the theme of the recent coronavirus crisis. the exhibit is part of a larger ‘social isolation pavilion’ which explores the consequence of quarantining measures, and was presented at the 2020 cultural and creative design expo in suzhou china.

all images by zhang li and convergent architecture studio (CAS)

convergent architecture studio’s approach is anchored on the belief that the face mask has transformed, from a simple piece of fabric to a symbol of resistance against the virus. in a way, the mask now represents the importance of each individual’s effort to combat the pandemic crisis. on a practical level, the pressing need to control the pandemic in china has resulted in a surplus of face mask production. by utilizing the remaining stockpiles, it was made possible to promote a public health message, as well as to create a monument to those affected. 

the project comprises a sequence of 80 curtains and a total of 117,539 individual masks. each curtain profile features a section devoid of face masks which, when in sequence, creates a void area that users can walk through. the result is a cave-like volume with soft fabric walls, diffused light and muffled sound coming from the exhibition outside.

the pavilion’s internal environment detaches itself from the liveliness and noise of the surrounding expo activities and in doing so re-captures and abstracts experience of social isolation. the result is a profound atmosphere much like that of a chapel or memorial. whilst here guests will discover that face masks are the primary building material subsequently changing their perception of both the pavilion and the masks themselves.

project info:

name: face to face
architecture office: convergent architecture studio (CAS)

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edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom