2006-2012 | London, UK
Glass Lens
ABOUT
The Glass Lens is a public artwork that acts as a subtle flickering screen between the main entrance lobby and street of Park House, which is a mixed-use building in the west end of Oxford Street.
The sculpture defines the entrance without obstructing the view into and out of the lobby. The fine detailing and pattern scale create a subtle yet dynamic entry into the building. The smooth, curved glass exterior surface reflects a compressed image of the environment, superimposed on a stretched image reflected from the interior surface.
The volume of the Glass Lens incorporates a double-sided vertical pattern on a printed silver interlayer in the glass. The interior face of the pattern is fully reflective and picks up fragmentary images of passing movement, while the exterior is matte silver, reflecting general light conditions.
The glass and supporting structure are detailed to minimise the visible weight. The glass panels are attached to the structural cables by custom-designed clamp fixings which are bonded to the interior surface of the laminated glass leaving a clear, smooth exterior.
In 2013 the ‘Glass Lens’ was shortlisted in the Day Light Category of the Surface Design Award.
Images: Tim Soar
Image (left): Tim Soar
Image: Tim Soar
Images: Tim Soar
Image: Tim Soar
Image: Tim Soar
Location
Park House,
Oxford Street,
London, UK
Lead Design
Carpenter | Lowings
Client
Land Securities,
London UK
Collaborators
Robin Partington Architects,London, UK (Building Architect) Adams Kara Taylor,London, UK (Structural Engineer Building) Eckersley O’Callaghan Structural Design,London, UK (Structural Engineer Artwork)
Date
2006 – 2012
Awards
Surface Design Award 2013,Day Light Category,Shortlist