The ‘Weave’ installation at Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens Pavilion is a striking addition to the city’s urban landscape. Designed by SpaceInvader in collaboration with Mancunian artist Lazerian and lighting designers Artin, the project intertwines art, history, and urban functionality. It reflects Manchester’s rich industrial heritage while addressing the challenges of modern public spaces.
The Architects Behind the Vision
SpaceInvader, a renowned Manchester-based design agency, led the redesign of the Piccadilly Gardens Pavilion. Founded in 2009, the agency is celebrated for its innovative and thoughtful projects that enhance urban life. For the ‘Weave’ installation, SpaceInvader partnered with Lazerian, known for his experimental designs, and Artin, experts in lighting. Together, they brought an imaginative approach to this collaborative endeavor, ensuring the installation harmonizes with the Pavilion’s refreshed design.
Celebrating Manchester’s Industrial Legacy
The concept of ‘Weave’ draws inspiration from Manchester’s textile industry, often referred to as the “Cottonopolis” of the Industrial Revolution. The installation creatively reuses the Pavilion’s original tie holes—remnants of the concrete casting process—to craft a design that resembles the interlacing threads of woven fabric. This motif nods to the city’s storied past while creating a dynamic, contemporary feature.
Functionality Meets Aesthetic
The installation is not merely decorative. It enhances the functionality of the Pavilion, which acts as an acoustic and visual barrier for the bus and tram interchanges. The interplay of light, shadow, and texture on the Pavilion’s wall transforms the space into a safer and more inviting environment. Carefully designed to deter vandalism, the light rods are positioned at high levels, and liquid metal accents provide durability at ground level.
Dynamic Interaction with Light and Space
Using RGB lighting, ‘Weave’ adapts to the natural rhythms of the day, fading on and off based on the astronomical clock. Its primary warm white hue can be adjusted to suit events and festivals, such as Pride or Christmas, infusing the space with a lively, community-focused atmosphere. The installation’s colors also reference natural dyes historically used in textiles, blending history with innovation. During the day, sunlight reflects off the metallic inlays, creating a vibrant interaction between natural light and architectural form.
This installation transcends its practical role, becoming a symbol of Manchester’s creativity and community spirit. It embodies how thoughtful design can honor the past while shaping the future of public spaces.
Technical Sheet
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Piccadilly Gardens Pavilion: ‘Weave’ Installation |
| Location | Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester, UK |
| Client | L&G Asset Management |
| Architects | SpaceInvader |
| Collaborators | Lazerian (Artist), Artin (Lighting Designers) |
| Main Contractor | Havercroft Construction Ltd |
| Lighting Contractor | Studiotech |
| Structural Engineer | Stantec |
| Material Highlights | Concrete, Liquid Metal, RGB Lighting, Acrylic Discs |
| Design Inspiration | Manchester’s textile heritage, natural dye colors, urban functionality |
| Key Features | Dynamic RGB lighting, vandal-proof design, textile-inspired patterns, community-focused design |
