STORY
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We would like Mobile Porch to be a tool, which introduces our art practice to the public.
One idea to attract attention was to find a surprising shape for Mobile Porch, which doesn't relate to anything people, might have seen before.
Initially our main objectives for Mobile Porch were that its function should be versatile and that the structure should be mobile. We envisioned a structure that could be transformable allowing it to have multiple functions, these included, using it as a stage, a screen, a piece of public furniture or even a light at night. With these requirements it would have to be lightweight in order to retain mobility and the surface would have to be removable. In terms of its size, we wanted it to be able to host at least two to three people sitting inside. These were our first drawings.
first sketches

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 With our initial objectives in mind, Andreas came up with the idea to make low-tech models on site. Equipped with cardboard, scissors and glue we went underneath the Westway flyover to start building the first models.
first models
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The rough models clarified our objectives and with some alteration, our next model was more precise. cardboard model

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To further explore the possibilities of Mobile Porch we set up the models in various positions and shapes and photographed these variations on site.
mp as stage

  

 

 

 

 

 


Having experimented with the models, Andreas began making technical drawing plans of Mobile Porch.
At this stage of the process we met with the engineers Carolina and Anton from Whitby Bird & Partners, who joined the design process. They analyzed the structure and contributed many ideas for its improvement, particularly with regard to the complicated details of the fold out system.

 


  

 



first drawing by Whitby Bird & Partners:
 
drawing by andreas:

 

 

The discussions with Carolina and Anton highlighted the importance of structural engineering that would be needed for the versatile functions of Mobile Porch. With a well designed internal aluminium structure the surface of Mobile porch could be changed by cladding the framework with different choices of material, such as plywood, Perspex or even solar cells.

Carolina and Anton suggested a company called Brilliant Stages to build Mobile Porch. Together with them, the engineers and Andreas we tried to find a final form for Mobile Porch which fulfilled all our needs and which was still within the budget.
Brilliant Stage was able to lend their stage building expertise to find reasonable solutions for the production of Mobile Porch.
construction of MP at Brilliant Stages


(click to see larger view)

  
 

The completed Mobile Porch is on site since 5th of November 2OOO.

MP after landing

(more images see backstage)

 

 

 

 


(click to see larger view)

 

  
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