THE WAVE

This sculptural and eye-catching People Spot on the Southport corridor was built in collaboration with the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce as part of the Chicago’s “Make Way for People” initiative. The program called for a removable platform adjacent to the sidewalk, within a parking lane, for the purpose of increasing community interaction and adding green space to the city.

 

The Wave is three-dimensional art that is simultaneously a bench, chaise lounge, picnic table, laptop station, and playground. It encourages passersby to pause, inviting a variety of uses which activate the street and promote social interaction. Nine aluminum planters with cable rail infill evoke a park-like setting and border the street to provide safety from traffic.

 

The Wave is made from 316 unique “fins” of marine grade mahogany plywood connected by stainless steel rods with concealed bolts. The fins were cut on a CNC mill from 4’x 8’ sheets using innovative software to maximize efficiency and reducing waste. A white lacquer finish, in contrast with the dark end grain, highlights the rhythm and pattern of the form.

 

The Wave is a seasonal object, installed in nine sections and affixed to a temporary, reusable porcelain paver platform, deterring theft and reducing maintenance.