Colourful concrete modules form engaging urban hangout spots in the Barcode collection, crafted by architecture studio MVRDV for Barcelona’s street furniture manufacturer, Escofet. This innovative design, often referred to as “barcode street furniture,” enhances urban environments by integrating artful utility.
This range features three foundational components—steps, slopes, and a combined table and bench—allowing an array of urban topographies to emerge.
Adaptive Urban Design in Modular Street Furniture
MVRDV founding partner Jacob van Rijs spearheaded the project, envisioning it as a catalyst for community participation. Van Rijs states the goal is to inspire urban residents to engage with and personalize their spaces creatively. The concept of these architectural elements plays a crucial role in this vision, employing modular design to foster interaction.
“Urban designs often feel formulaic, with predictable placements,” Van Rijs notes. “Our approach centers on human interaction, encouraging unexpected public engagement with each module arrangement.” These structures transform spaces into interactive zones, promoting human connection.
For more on transformative urban design, explore how Flip’s Ingenious Seating Solution for Crowded Terminals offers creative solutions for public spaces.
Functional Modules in Diverse Hues
The Barcode collection, adaptable with features like planters, comes in eight of Escofet’s concrete colors—ranging from vibrant reds and greens to subdued greys and beiges. The Tribune module offers broad steps for sitting and climbing, while Dune provides a gentle incline for relaxation. The Desk module integrates a traditional table setting conducive for outdoor dining or work.
All modules share consistent dimensions, enabling them to align seamlessly. Whether stretched into long lines or grouped into compact configurations, the collection includes 72 different choices of elements, facilitating nearly limitless combinations.
Previous Innovations by MVRDV
Since its founding in 1991 by Jacob van Rijs, Winy Maas, and Nathalie de Vries, MVRDV has pioneered imaginative street furniture. Notable projects include a vibrant woven seating mat in Bangkok and playful blue areas within a 200-meter park beneath a Mumbai flyover. Their expertise in modular design has paved the way for innovative concepts like this inventive range we see today.
Discover another concrete innovation with Casa Arbo’s blend of concrete and wood for a verdant design approach in São Paulo.
Photography and renderings are provided by MVRDV.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of the Barcode street furniture?
MVRDV founding partner Jacob van Rijs envisioned the design as a catalyst for community participation, aiming to inspire urban residents to engage with and personalize their spaces creatively. The concept employs modular design to foster interaction and promote unexpected public engagement.
How many different module choices does the Barcode collection include?
The Barcode collection includes 72 different choices of elements, facilitating nearly limitless combinations.
What are the three foundational components of the Barcode collection?
The range features three foundational components: steps, slopes, and a combined table and bench, allowing an array of urban topographies to emerge.