Kengo Kuma - Earth | Tree

For this site-specific installation at Copenhagen Contemporary, Kengo Kuma and Associates wished to channel this most fundamental of architectural experiences: seeking shelter beneath a tree. Through close collaboration with engineers at Buro Happold and Jakob Rope Systems, this experience was acheived by erecting a massive 30-meter long canopy made from 5,000 wooden slats suspended from a massive steel frame. Light filters gently through the slats and casts dancing patterns on the ground, a phenomenon called komorebi.

This project was only possible through tight collaboration between Barlby Carlsson, Copenhagen Contemporary, KKAA, Buro Happold, Jakob Rope Systems FGU and Troldkjær. Generous donations of seconds from Dinesen and Petersen Tegl comprised the earthly materiality.