Soap opera

FINALIST of Unfinished Colosseum

+ FINALIST

Unfinished Colosseum

[15117]

Soap opera

Team

Name: Martina Janssen

Instagram: @actionmattie

Nationality: German

One remarkable feature of the Colosseum was the velarium, a retractable awning which covered the entire seating area. Inspired by this particular characteristic, soap opera is based on the idea to design a versatile canopy for the colosseum which respects the cultural heritage of the ancient monument whilst also re-inventing the public space. The enclosure of the Colosseum is transformed into a multi-funtional space for public events that facilitate the inclusion of individuals in a shared experience. The inflatable canopy can be illuminated at night and infinitely transformed with projected media to create an immerse, ever changing environment full of possibilities. This can include exhibitions, concerts, or film screenings. Similar to the historical velarium, soap opera can be used to shade the audience from the sun or rain. Moreover, as the inflatable canopy floats above the Colosseum, it is structurally detached from the historical monument whilst also creating a ventilation updraft. The canopy consists of inflatable pockets made from recyclable ETFE and is held together through a net of steel cables. Thanks to the flexible material, the roof will adjust its form in response to wind, change in temperature etc.