NEWS: A BEAT OF WATER by BIG x Roca
April. 12. 2025
Reviewed by David Vi Boi Huynh, BOI ARCHI DESIGN
Event: Milan Design Week 2025
1. What "Form" Did BIG Give to 'A Beat of Water'?
BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), in collaboration with Roca, conceptualized 'A Beat of Water' as a 14-meter-long and 3.5-meter-high immersive installation composed of 300 meters of galvanized steel pipes. This structure forms a flowing, visually arresting pavilion that embodies the continuous circulation of water, inviting visitors to experience its dynamic movement, vibration, and calming sounds.
BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group), in collaboration with Roca, conceptualized 'A Beat of Water' as a 14-meter-long and 3.5-meter-high immersive installation composed of 300 meters of galvanized steel pipes. This structure forms a flowing, visually arresting pavilion that embodies the continuous circulation of water, inviting visitors to experience its dynamic movement, vibration, and calming sounds.
2. How Did They Give This "Form"?
The form was realized by exposing typically hidden infrastructure - plumbing systems - to the forefront, transforming them into an artistic expression. The installation features a closed-loop water system, ensuring no wastage, and integrates Roca's smart water management system, Roca Connect, to highlight sustainable water usage. This approach aligns with BIG's philosophy of "hedonistic sustainability," where environmentally responsible design also provides sensory and aesthetic pleasure.
The form was realized by exposing typically hidden infrastructure - plumbing systems - to the forefront, transforming them into an artistic expression. The installation features a closed-loop water system, ensuring no wastage, and integrates Roca's smart water management system, Roca Connect, to highlight sustainable water usage. This approach aligns with BIG's philosophy of "hedonistic sustainability," where environmentally responsible design also provides sensory and aesthetic pleasure.
3. Is It a Good Form for the Public?
Yes, the installation serves as an effective public engagement piece. By making the invisible visible, it educates visitors on the importance of water conservation and the role of technology in sustainable practices. The multisensory experience fosters a deeper connection with the subject matter, making it both informative and emotionally resonant.
4. Will This Form Continue to Give in the Future?
While the installation is temporary, its impact is enduring. It sets a precedent for how design can address environmental issues and encourages the integration of sustainability into everyday life. The demonstrated concepts can inspire future designs prioritizing resource conservation and public awareness.
Yes, the installation serves as an effective public engagement piece. By making the invisible visible, it educates visitors on the importance of water conservation and the role of technology in sustainable practices. The multisensory experience fosters a deeper connection with the subject matter, making it both informative and emotionally resonant.
4. Will This Form Continue to Give in the Future?
While the installation is temporary, its impact is enduring. It sets a precedent for how design can address environmental issues and encourages the integration of sustainability into everyday life. The demonstrated concepts can inspire future designs prioritizing resource conservation and public awareness.
5. Conclusion
'A Beat of Water' exemplifies how design can transcend aesthetics to become a powerful tool for education and environmental advocacy. Through its innovative use of materials and technology, BIG and Roca have created an installation that not only captivates but also instills a lasting message about the importance of sustainable water management.
'A Beat of Water' exemplifies how design can transcend aesthetics to become a powerful tool for education and environmental advocacy. Through its innovative use of materials and technology, BIG and Roca have created an installation that not only captivates but also instills a lasting message about the importance of sustainable water management.
