Helper

BMAD Design and Build Challenge Winner 2021

Summer 2021 -

“Helper” is an architectural installation for the BMAD Design Build Challenge 2021. The construction starts at the 1st week of June and aims to open to the public 1st week of July. “Helper” will live at the courtyard of the Branch Museum of Architecture and Design on Monument Avenue through this fall. 

The “Helper” design aims to address wasted materials by highlighting human’s impact on the natural world. By creating two different experiences from inside to the outside through all sensations, occupants cannot disregard the sharp ends of the abandoned materials used and, thus, must acknowledge the lifecycle of wood, as well as any materials human consumes. The sticks point to countless places that resonate with visitors. 

An Liu, a.k.a. Sledge, is a concept-driven designer at SMBW Architects and an adjunct faculty at the Department of Interior Design at VCUarts. As a VCUarts mOb studio alumni, An’s design solutions continuously acknowledge environmental and social impacts. 

Images courtesy of John Wadsworth. HELPER was generously sponsored by Sally Brown.