The outdoor canopy space at MAME Shiba Cafe, a collaboration between Lam Weaving Spaces and Red5Studio, showcases an inventive blend of functionality and artistry. The sturdy steel frame supports translucent PVC plastic balloons, creating a soft and ethereal effect as light passes through. The tensioned cables are carefully designed to hold the balloons in place, forming shapes reminiscent of floating clouds gently covering the space below.
The translucent PVC material not only helps reduce heat and block direct sunlight but also adds a sense of openness and expansiveness to the space. The canopy provides a soft contrast to the rigid steel frame, while ensuring the area beneath remains cool and pleasant. This structure guarantees functional durability while adding an aesthetic highlight to the cafe area, offering customers a relaxing and comfortable experience.
“An artwork designed by Red5Studio was executed in the outdoor space of Kin Neko – MAME Shiba Cafe by Kin Neko. The outdoor roof system is intended to reduce sunlight and create an interesting effect, resembling clusters of magical clouds. Using thick, semi-transparent plastic material, the pieces were heat-sealed into balloon-like shapes and inflated according to calculated forms. These balloons were then connected together to form a very lightweight roof structure. The supporting frame is assembled from small iron rods, interwoven into a slender yet stable framework.
The overall space is captivating, with light and colors changing according to the setting and time of day. The material has light-conducting properties, so when illuminated at night, it appears hazy and shimmering.”
