The winning design for the MoMA PS1 Young Architects Program in 2010, titled “Pole Dance,” offered a unique exploration of sensory-rich environments, moving beyond traditional architectural forms. This temporary structure in the PS1 courtyard was conceived to address a dual purpose: providing both a space for relaxation and social interaction, focusing on the dynamic interplay of situations rather than just creating a static object.
The “Pole Dance” installation presented a participatory setting that redefined the relationship between people and architecture. It comprised an interconnected system of poles and nets, designed to respond to human actions and environmental elements like wind and rain. Visitors were encouraged to interact with the structure, discovering its elasticity and inventing ways to engage with it, whether through playful activities or simply observing its gentle movements. This environment aimed to reconnect the public with the physical world, fostering a heightened awareness and appreciation for their immediate surroundings.
An immersive and interactive component was located in the smaller courtyard adjacent to the main space, allowing visitors to generate and manipulate a complex soundscape from within the installation. Eight poles were equipped with accelerometers, electronic sensors measuring motion. These sensors were linked to custom software that translated pole movements into unique tones specifically created for the installation.
Furthermore, an iPhone application enabled visitors to influence the sound characteristics of each pole in real-time. Through collaborative voting within the app, the audience could collectively adjust the sound environment by modifying effect levels. The app also collected data on the movements of the interactive poles, visualizing the dynamic activity and motion within the installation in real-time, offering a visual representation of collective interaction.
The entire “Pole Dance” system was constructed using readily available, off-the-shelf materials. The design prioritized easy disassembly without material damage, and most components were repurposed after the installation concluded, emphasizing sustainability and resourcefulness in architectural design.
