Retail kiosks | Make Architects

Two unique prefabricated retail kiosks designed by Make Architects were opened to the public for the first time when they became part of the Canary Wharf’s Ice Sculpturing Festival last month. The simple folding geometric form of the kiosk is based on the concept of origami. Expressed as a compact, sculptural rectangular box when closed, the structure is transformed when open, with folds and hinges in the aluminium panels allowing them to expand and contract like a fan when the kiosk opens and closes. Sean Affleck, Make lead project architect, said: “It’s fantastic to see the kiosks on site being used and enjoyed by the public, and adding vibrancy and character to Canary Wharf’s public realm area. “Our solution on the modern street kiosk is a distinctive sculptural rectangular box that transforms when it opens and its function is revealed. The design is also efficient and functional with compact, robust, durable, easy to maintain and vandal and graffiti- proof features. The internal fit-out elements can be adapted to suit the needs of individual vendors.” The extremely lightweight, portable structure was tested and prefabricated off-site by Entech Environmental Technology Ltd, delivered to Canary Wharf via lorry and installed complete and pre-assembled. Further details: Internal dimensions: 1.95m deep x 3m wide Internal structure: a steel frame with inner faces lined with a plywood-stressed skin covered with a waterproof membrane. Rain-skin cladding panels are supported off this skin to create an insulative air gap which helps to reduce solar gain. External cladding: powder-coated aluminium cladding panels provide the kiosk with a highly resilient, durable finish which requires minimal maintenance.