A closer look at Folly 2015 entry "Balloon Swing" by Lockhart Krause Architect

The Architectural League's popular Folly competition is already underway with the recent conclusion of the 2015 call for proposals. Brisbane-based practice Lockhart Krause Architect shared their colorful proposal, "Balloon Swing", for the temporary installation competition.

The winning proposal will receive a $5,000 production grant to realize their project and have it proudly displayed at the Socrates Sculpture Park in New York this May.

Check out Lockhart Krause Architect's proposal right below.

Project description:

"'Balloon Swing' is a playful temporary sculpture which engages families at the Socrates Sculpture Park. The colourful & flamboyant hot-air balloon, tethered to the ground, supports a simple rope swing, allowing children a unique & memorable ride within the protection of the surrounding trees."

"The Socrates Sculpture park sits beside the East River in Long Island City NY, containing a diversity of spaces, both open and sheltered. A destination very popular with families."

"The installation gains its inspiration from a protective grove of trees on the site, a perfect place for children to play; a family comfortably enjoying a picnic in the shade. The sculpture sits in the center of a small clearing in the trees, providing a swing for children to enjoy."

"Using a economy of means, the proposal borrows 70% of its infrastructure from the vibrant hot air ballooning community of NY. This move simplifies construction, the sculptures complexity captured within the existing balloon. Reductions in cost & wastage are also achieved, the balloon unit & tanks borrowed and returned, with ropes and supports donated."

"The 'Balloon Swing' provides a beautiful high impact sculpture, as well as utilitarian swing. Its colour and associations to play & childhood adding to the parks identity & sense of place."

All images courtesy of Lockhart Krause Architect.