London’s Camden Market’s carnival atmosphere famously attracts people from all walks of life and is popular with Goths and Punks who live and work alongside the traditional antiques and clothing traders. Due to increased visitor numbers, this borough of London has recently attracted substantial development funding enabling a gradual and sympathetic facelift to take place. How apt that this beautifully crafted walkway canopy should adorn a building that sits at the heart of London’s bohemian arts and crafts district.
We decided to use Tenara material which is 100% PTFE and is manufactured to very high quality standards. Accordingly, it benefits from high levels of translucency such that the light striking the smooth curves of the canopy is evenly diffused, lifting the whole structure and making it appear to fluoresce. The twisted, eccentric steel framework which carries the fabric is constructed of many irregular curves making the geometry of each bay completely unique. Needless to say the patterning of the fabric was a monumental task, and yet it fits so well.
Set as it is against a backdrop of muted coloured glass curtain walling set in steel grey frames, this installation promotes the fabric so that it appears to shine like a pearl unearthed in this most unlikely of habitats. The completed project is a true testament to the combination of visionary artist and engineer.
in Bristol
