plywood and fabric solar trees installations pop up across urban open spaces for shade

"Solar Trees by Izaskun Chinchilla Architects introduces mobile installations positioned in public squares and open spaces with limited vegetation. Each unit provides a shaded, multifunctional platform that can accommodate informal activities such as sitting, picnicking, and social gatherings. Designed as adaptable urban furniture, the structures encourage users to engage with their environment, adjusting their position in response to the changing movement of the sun throughout the day."

"The design centers on a tree-like structure combining natural fibers with lightweight structural components. The main frame is composed of 18 mm radiata pine panels cut using CNC technology for precision and consistency. Tubular floaters, 7 cm in diameter, are inserted through perforated upper panels to create stable joints. Outdoor fabrics, ropes, and cords are interwoven through the tubular elements, forming a flexible shading canopy."

"Craftsmanship and local collaboration are integral to the project by Izaskun Chinchilla Architectural Studio. The textile components were fabricated with the help of a local seamstress, highlighting artisanal techniques and reinforcing neighborhood production networks. Measuring 3.29 meters in height and 3.60 meters in length, each structure spans approximately 2.60 meters at its upper canopy. The installation is mounted on four swivel rubber wheels, allowing it to be easily repositioned within different public spaces."

Mobile Solar Trees create shaded, multifunctional platforms for informal activities in public squares and open spaces lacking vegetation. Each unit functions as adaptable urban furniture that users can reposition to follow the sun and engage with the environment. The design uses a tree-like frame of 18 mm radiata pine panels cut by CNC, with 7 cm tubular floaters forming stable joints and woven outdoor fabrics, ropes, and cords creating a flexible canopy. Textile components were made locally by a seamstress, reinforcing artisanal production networks. Units measure roughly 3.29 m high by 3.60 m long with a 2.60 m canopy and roll on four swivel rubber wheels for transport and placement coordinated with EDU and APP staff.

Read at designboom | architecture & design magazine