OMA's KUBE is a multi-functional installation in hong kong

against the backdrop of skyscrapers that populate hong kong’s waterfront, ‘KUBE’ — designed by OMA — is an intimate structure designed to foster impromptu encounters and happenings. KUBE is a compact, multi-functional installation that is at once a kiosk, an outdoor seating area, and an event space. the structure serves as an invitation to passers-by to pause and be fully present to experience the city.

all images © kevin mak, courtesy of OMA

located in front of a main entrance of K11 MUSEA — a ten-storey retail space designed to blend cultural experiences and commerce — the golden cube is home to a local artisan coffee brewer. KUBE’s anodized aluminum finish changes color throughout the day as light reflects from the material, offering visitors different scenes at dawn and dusk, day and night.

adjacent to the kiosk, OMA positioned a set of stone cubes that function as outdoor chairs and tables. people are invited to sit on the cubes for coffee breaks, or to simply to enjoy the harbor views. this seating configuration also creates possibilities for different events, such as outdoor performances — allowing cultural programs to take place within the shopping complex.

for special events, a giant red balloon, visible from across hong kong’s victoria harbour, is installed as a ‘city canopy’ to gather all participants under the same roof. ‘small in scale, yet distinguished by its simple geometry and engaging happenings around it, KUBE is an urban landmark of experience, rather than spectacle,’ says OMA. see other projects by the firm here, including a residential tower planned for kuwait city’s waterfront and a stacked hotel nearing completion in amsterdam.

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project info:

name: KUBE
location: hong kong
status: completed
client: K11 MUSEA
site: K11 MUSEA, victoria dockside, 18 salisbury road, tsim sha tsui, kowloon, hong kong
program: installation

architect: OMA
partner-in-charge: david gianotten, rem koolhaas
project architect: ricky suen, ken fung
team:
concept: ricky suen, alan lau
SD: ricky suen, slobodan radoman, camilla mori
DD: ricky suen, slobodan radoman
CA: ken fung