Modular Urban Furniture: Redefining Public SpacesModular Urban Furniture: Redefining Public Spaces

Modular Urban Furniture: Redefining Public Spaces

UNI EditorialUNI Editorial
UNI Editorial published Story under Prototyping, Furniture Design on Jan 23, 2025

The 1x1 Industrial Urban Furniture system is a pioneering approach to modular design, rooted in adaptability and sustainability. Developed on Refshaleøen Island in Copenhagen, this project celebrates the area’s industrial heritage while addressing the needs of mixed-use urban environments.

This innovative system, designed by Mykolas Šečkus and Antonio Gandolfo, emerged as the winning entry in Urbanscape: Symbiosis. It is characterized by its 1x1 meter 3D grid, with vertical pipe structures forming a flexible frame that accommodates a variety of modular components. The system’s versatility allows for seamless integration into diverse urban landscapes, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The integration of natural and industrial elements—Refshaleøen's modular inspiration.
The integration of natural and industrial elements—Refshaleøen's modular inspiration.
Multi-level modular seating with built-in planters promotes urban interaction.
Multi-level modular seating with built-in planters promotes urban interaction.

A Tribute to Refshaleøen’s Legacy

Refshaleøen Island’s rich industrial history provides the perfect backdrop for the 1x1 system. Once a bustling shipyard, the island has transformed into a hub of innovation and creativity. The modular urban furniture reflects this spirit, blending industrial design with forward-thinking adaptability.

Key Features of the 1x1 System

  • Scalable Design: Each module is built around a standardized 1x1 meter grid, ensuring scalability for projects of all sizes.
  • Durability and Sustainability: Materials are carefully selected to withstand urban conditions while promoting environmental responsibility.
  • Versatile Applications: From urban parks to street food markets, the system adapts to various settings, encouraging community interaction and dynamic use of space.
Modular seating with greenery offers sustainable and aesthetic public space solutions.
Modular seating with greenery offers sustainable and aesthetic public space solutions.
Urban farming reimagined: tiered modules combining greenery and functionality.
Urban farming reimagined: tiered modules combining greenery and functionality.
An interactive modular urban park bringing nature to cityscapes.
An interactive modular urban park bringing nature to cityscapes.

Resilience and Innovation

At its core, the 1x1 system addresses the challenges of modern urbanization by emphasizing resilience and modularity. The design facilitates long-term usability, offering solutions that can be reconfigured to meet evolving demands. This approach ensures that public spaces remain vibrant and functional, even as urban needs change.

Seaside modular installations fostering vibrant community engagement.
Seaside modular installations fostering vibrant community engagement.
A modular tower blending greenery and observation for a unique urban perspective.
A modular tower blending greenery and observation for a unique urban perspective.

Urbanscape: Symbiosis

The collaboration of Šečkus and Gandolfo brought the concept of symbiosis to life, seamlessly integrating human interaction, environmental considerations, and aesthetic functionality. Their vision has redefined the boundaries of modular urban furniture, setting a new standard for how cities can evolve sustainably.

Modular spaces for public activities at Refshaleøen's vibrant urban hub.
Modular spaces for public activities at Refshaleøen's vibrant urban hub.

Refshaleøen’s Future

As urban spaces continue to evolve, the goal of Refshaleøen is to foster environments that prioritize community engagement and sustainable living. The 1x1 system aligns with this mission, offering a practical yet visionary solution to urban challenges.

Explore the possibilities of modular design with 1x1 Industrial Urban Furniture—where innovation meets functionality, and cities are transformed one square meter at a time.

Green-enhanced seating modules redefine urban public spaces at Refshaleøen.
Green-enhanced seating modules redefine urban public spaces at Refshaleøen.
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