In collaboration with four classmates we designed an inflatable, temporary installation for the MOMO festival. The structure, consisting of a series of interconnected arches, would be placed throughout Rotterdam to guide the festival attendees to stages scattered around the city. 

The goal of this project was to activate the unused back alleys of Rotterdam. The oragnic shape and colorfull glow of the translucent plastic contrasts the sqaure and grey cityscape. By following their curiosity, these alien constructions would encourage festival attendees to explore alternative routes. 

Fabricated from plastic bags melted together at the seam, this lightweight structure could easily be set up using two airblowers and even be recycled after its use. Each arch was constructed from segments and attached to a carboard base. The design and measurements were created using Rhino 3D. 

With this project, even local festival attendees would experience a new side of Rotterdam. The back alleys used for this project serve mainly as service points for the shops on the crowded main streets. At night, these spaces are not only unused but hazardous for people (especially women), and are mostly avoided. By lighting up and introducing a flow of people, these areas are activated and returned to the people.


On the left you see a map which was created in combination with the structure. Alongside the festival venues, hints are visible. On arrival at these hint locations, the structure and back alley entrances would be in sight. Five versions of this map were created with differing hints, encouraging diverse experiences for the festival attendees.