Design Exhibit during Milan Week: 'A Pulse of Water' showcases the potency of our valued natural element, water
During Milan Design Week 2025, the "A Beat of Water" installation by BIG (Bjarke Ingels Group) and Roca captivated audiences with its unique blend of art, architecture, and sustainability[1][2][3]. This 14m-long and 3.5m-high structure, made from 300m of galvanised steel pipes, serves as a testament to the importance of water conservation[1].
The installation aims to raise awareness for the consumption and management of one of Earth's most precious resources, water. It does so by showcasing the continuous circulation of water, inviting visitors to interact with the element's dynamic movement, vibration, rhythm, and calming sounds[1].
Bjarke Ingels, founder of BIG, explains that the exhibit is meant to bring the 'back of house' to the fore, highlighting the hidden beauty of the everyday[4]. The water used in the design travels in a closed-loop system, ensuring no wastage[5].
The installation also demonstrates the potential for enjoyable and sustainable 'back-of-house' projects. Ingels highlights the early adoption of new technology as a significant aspect of 'A Beat of Water', showcasing Roca Connect, Roca’s cloud-based smart water management system[6].
"A Beat of Water" is an example of how design, innovation, contemporary flair, state-of-the-art technology, and sustainable architecture can merge. It continues to emphasize the need for sustainable treatment of the precious resource, water[7].
Ingels also discusses the importance of social infrastructure, suggesting that even 'back-of-house' projects like parking structures can be designed to be fun[8]. The exhibit, set in Milan's Università Statale, offers a unique experience to its visitors, playing with all the senses and embodying the concept of 'hedonistic sustainability'[9].
The installation further showcases the integration of new technology in its design, demonstrating the potential for enjoyable and sustainable architectural installations[10]. By merging art and technology with sustainability, "A Beat of Water" stands as a significant contribution to Milan Design Week 2025 and the ongoing conversation about resource conservation and sustainable design.
References: 1. Designboom 2. Dezeen 3. ArchDaily 4. Fast Company 5. Architect Magazine 6. Wired 7. Curbed 8. Architectural Digest 9. The Spaces 10. Inhabitat
The installation, "A Beat of Water," astutely merges art, architecture, and sustainable living towards a goal of shedding light on the necessity of water conservation. It does this by presenting the continuous flow and rhythmic movement of water, using cutting-edge technology in its Roca Connect system to manage water efficiently and promote sustainable living. Furthermore, the installation underscores the potential for engaged and eco-friendly home-and-garden projects by demonstrating how contemporary design, technology, and artificial intelligence can harmonize with sustainable lifestyles.
