LINK is a modular and scalable system that acts as a moving exhibition. This system was designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, seamlessly integrating any context's culture while being environmentally responsible and cost-effective.
This project began with a thorough investigation into the Fondazione Prada’s philosophy and the design methodology of Bjorke Ingles Group (BIG), as the project was being executed in collaboration with BIG. The objective was to create a modular and scalable system to produce multi-purpose spaces to host exhibitions, performances, and events that are financially sustainable and environmentally responsible.
The foundation’s focus was on creating culturally accessible exhibitions that encouraged self-reflection and interaction with both the site and viewers. During the design of the foundations new headquarters in milan, OMA tailored their approach to fit with Fondazione Prada’s key philosophy of innovation and
the use of new technologies. This is portrayed through the unique materials the Fondazione is built with.
In response to these requirements, we proposed a concept of a system that could create spaces that adapt to the needs of the exhibition and its art pieces. This system was designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, seamlessly integrating the context’s culture and materiality while staying true to Fondazione Prada’s philosophy, regardless of the location.
The Link Components
Re-Inventing an Exhibition Wall
Sketch Showing Process of Assembly
The Link is composed of these manufactured parts - the Hinges and Brackets. That means after they’re used, they can either be kept for future exhibitions or sold and reused by other groups for their own needs. Because the hinges and brackets have such a long lifespan, this design minimises the waste between exhibition applications.
The image shows a technical detail drawing of the two parts that need to be custom produced. They are very simple products, so there’s little room for error in their fabrication, and their assembly is fairly straightforward.
Total cost of creating an exhibition
The project is potentially more expensive upfront than a typical exhibition setup, but over time as you reuse, it pays off and becomes a great investment. Options were explored to either ship one set of hinges around wherever it is needed or manufacture a new set at every new city and transport them to different buildings where the set-up is required. The latter option was much more financially sustainable in the long run, after approximately seven exhibitions.
Total cost of energy used in creating an exhibition
The projected energy consumption of our design is similar to the cost analysis. In the beginning, it will take slightly more energy to manufacture a new set of hinges, but over time they’re substantially more eco-friendly than non-reusable systems.