Tyvek® l DuPont Design Award 2023

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Currently, social connections predominantly occur within the confines of homes or specific venues, with outdoor spaces often overlooked as the primary option. This tendency may be attributed to the limitations of existing public furniture and its design, as individuals might hesitate to occupy a communal bench if someone unfamiliar is already seated. In light of these considerations, this project seeks to introduce a novel and versatile approach to outdoor experiences and communal spaces, whether one opts for solitary contemplation or a gathering with friends.

Tyvek® emerges as the ideal material for this context, offering essential properties crucial to the structure's success. Specifically, the focus for the seating areas includes Tyvek®'s tear and fray resistance, its lightweight nature, and its distinctive aesthetic qualities. For the top awning, fastened to the metal tubes with sturdy ropes, Tyvek®'s water resistance and capacity to provide shade from the sun contribute to a visual ambiance, enriching the overall experience. Additionally, the constant weight load on the suspended seats necessitates material integrity and strength as fundamental components of the project. In this regard, DuPont's Tyvek® 1082D proves to be the optimal choice, encapsulating all the necessary qualities for the success and sustainability of this innovative outdoor structure.

To materialize the vision, the structure comprises two distinct seating areas arranged in concentric circles, each covered by a Tyvek® awning. Elevated into the air and supported by robust steel columns, these interconnected circles feature spokes adorned with long Tyvek® strips forming either a "U" or droplet shape. The bottom section of these strips serves as a suspended seat for users. The strategic arrangement of these strips allows for easy adjustment, enabling individuals to determine the desired level of intimacy for their group experience – from a lively social gathering to a more secluded solo experience.