In design, it's often said that “form follows function,” but for the Zalewski Architecture Group, sometimes “the form follows fun.” They designed a walk-on balcony that's suspended above a courtyard in Gliwice, Poland. This isn't your typical pathway, though. Instead of being a rigid, straight line, the designers added some whimsy and created a meandering green course that leads you from one entrance to another.
The inviting concept encourages office workers to step out of the balcony door and take a walk along the grassy route. Its path flows freely and is meant to offer a moment of relaxation, rest, and a change your attitude if you're having a bad day. Better yet, this design provides quick access to the outdoors – no need to walk all the way downstairs.
The structure is mounted and supported by a series of thin wires that extend to the surrounding buildings. This, along with the path being 80cm wide, helps to reduce the shadows made on the courtyard. The bottom of the walkway comprises polished metal that mirrors its surroundings and blurs the edges of the path. Not only is this design beneficial for those above ground, but people below can look up and see a sculptural work of art against the sky.
Zalewski Architecture Group website
via [Inhabitat and Contemporist]
