Adaptable Futures
extending the life of our built environment
Ragged and potentially dangerous remains of public park boundary fencing are made safe for passers-by (especially wobbly cyclists and small children) by placing coffee cans over the ends. This simple safety-adjustment replaces (temporarily, perhaps permanently) costly and time-taking commercial solutions … Continue reading
Reinforcing rods for the concrete block wall of a new house are made safe for passing eyes with the empty coffee cans of the construction workers (an easy form of temporary site cleaning-up too). From Chris Berthelsen (a-small-lab)
Wire twisted into pot plant holders to decorate roadside residential fencing. From Chris Berthelsen (a-small-lab)
Metal window ledge/safety railing provides ample space for both storing cabbages (they are much sweeter when stored outside) and drying shoes. It’s inspiring to see delicious and practical use of a default safety fixture. This simple example gives us a … Continue reading
The boundary of a driveway modified as a pot plant display area and seat for outdoor BBQs. From Chris Berthelsen (a-small-lab)
Cut-off tyres guard against parking mishaps. From Chris Berthelsen (a-small-lab)
Hand made map showing shops and attractions in the center of Nagoya’s shopping district, Sakae. Various fonts, paper, and hand written annotations, along with fading, wear and tear evoke the temporality of commerce. I wonder what rules and regulations hold … Continue reading
Functional adaption of park tree for maintenance equipment storage in a run-down apartment complex just off the high-fashion avenue of Omotesando. From Chris Berthelsen (a-small-lab)
Cardboard box recycling tower constructed from salvaged metal rack and wood block for stabilization. Stool for reaching upper levels. This example is a note for a pamphlet on “Hand Made Aspects of Mass Produced Housing” by a-small-lab. From Chris Berthelsen … Continue reading
Repurposed tv unit houses library of rescued reading material, and acts as storage space for cleaning tools and items that rubbish center workers want to keep for themselves. Hand made sign reads “Please don’t take the stuff inside this cabinet … Continue reading
Chair used to signal location of store, and display products…as well as discouraging parking. From Chris Berthelsen (a-small-lab)