Standing at 3.5m in height and 2m in width, Buds are free-standing changing rooms we created for the Three on the Bund retail space. We drew from the ideas of changeability, theatre, privacy and exhibitionism to form the double shell structure whereupon two rattan leaves rotate along a circular base to form a sculptural rattan cocoon when closed. When open, each Bud acts as a theatrical stage set for the person emerging from within. The resulting effect of the Buds is something that is at once familiar (the traditional rattan structure ties it intimately with China) and unique (the towering scale gives them an unexpected sculptural presence).

completed autumn 2004