Thomas Heatherwick created this beach side cafe in Little Hampton, UK around an extremely strict design concept.
The owners of the East Beach Cafe wanted to discourage graffiti, which was a problem in the past, by getting rid of any large expanse of flat surface on the building. It was their intention to design a building that was long and thin, their thought being it would maximize the sweeping ocean views.
The architect took the "no flat surfaces" concept to the extreme by breaking the building into ribbons resembling the contours of a map. Each ribbon is 30 centimeters wide and was chosen for the peculiar reason that this was the size of a standard shutter which could cover the facade from the elements.
Really, it's as good of a reason as any.
I quite like the building for it's clear statement, "I turn my back on the land and look only towards the sea."
It's a very opaque building. It's sort of like a little child standing in the corner trying to ignore the world, but doing so in the most conspicuous way. From far off, the building is like a ferrous sand dune or a Mad Max dreamscape. I love it. Thanks for being forceful.
Beach Cafe Made of Iron Sheets
Graffiti-Proof East Beach Cafe
Trend Themes
1. Graffiti-proof Architecture - The concept of using ribbons to break up the building's surface minimizes flat surfaces and discourages graffiti, presenting opportunities for innovative architectural designs that prioritize functionality and aesthetics while deterring vandalism.
2. Ocean-view Maximization - The design of the beach cafe focused on maximizing ocean views by creating a long and thin structure, highlighting the potential for innovative architectural designs that prioritize panoramic views in coastal settings.
3. Unconventional Facade Materials - The use of iron sheets as the main material for the building's facade opens up possibilities for disruptive innovation in architectural materials, encouraging the exploration of unconventional and visually striking options for construction projects.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The concept of graffiti-proof architecture and maximizing ocean views presents innovative opportunities for architects to create visually appealing and functional designs in various settings.
2. Construction - The unconventional use of materials, such as iron sheets, in building facades offers disruptive innovation opportunities for the construction industry to explore alternative materials and construction techniques.
3. Tourism/hospitality - Incorporating innovative architectural designs that prioritize ocean views can provide disruptive opportunities for the tourism and hospitality industry to attract visitors with unique and visually captivating beachfront establishments.