Canary Wharf Group asked us to design two retail kiosks for their 97-acre estate in London’s Docklands. They had to be durable, easy to maintain, and vandalism-proof, and their style had to match the bold, bright and contemporary public art on site.
Inspired by origami, we created a striking geometric design that’s both stylish and resilient. Plywood-stressed skin and waterproof membranes stretch across steel frames, while insulating rain-skin cladding panels reduce solar gain. The kiosks harness steel counterweights to pull up external aluminium panels concertina-style, revealing the adaptable space inside.
Since opening in 2014, the kiosks have hosted arts hubs, food stalls, pop-up retailers and more. Their interiors can be adapted to suit a range of vendors, and Canary Wharf Group can easily move them around the estate to activate different spaces.
Lightweight and portable, the two kiosks were delivered pre-assembled, and installed without foundations. Their attention-grabbing sculptural design complements the nearby restaurants, shops, and public art.
Kiosk part 1: Concept
It’s fantastic to see the kiosks on site being used and enjoyed by the public, and adding vibrancy and character to Canary Wharf.
Kiosk part 2: Prototype
