Le Champs Des Possibles, an exhibition at Site Le Corbusier in Firminy, reveals the relevance of micro-architecture for modern living via six structures by Döppel Studio.

Key features

The six yellow micro-architectures Döppel Studio developed iterate upon the Le Corbusier’s notions of functionalist living, offering reinterpretations based on modern lifestyles and societal challenges. Exhibited at Firminy cultural centre Site Le Corbusier, the project seeks to carve out space for people to test and experiment means of living together, using the small structures. ‘These installations question the concept of housing and how it meets our essential needs like getting healthy air, being sheltered and nourished, or getting access to freshwater,’ say the designers. ‘The exhibition also questions the connection between body and mind.’

The team used Le Corbusier’s Cabanon – a 15-sq-m wooden living ‘cell’ designed in 1951 – as a starting point. Their updated Cabanon is situated not overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, as the late architect’s was, but in a grain field in the country; the theoretical site was selected to raise the idea of nomadism and challenge comfort zones. The temporary, seasonal ‘house’ is fitted with the furniture needed for shelter, sleep and work. A hut intended for gathering and relaxation is the second micro-architecture, inspired by the Native American structures used as sweat lodges. LC4 O2 – a seat resembling Le Corbusier’s namesake lounge chair – similarly encourages leisure while addressing land waste, inviting one to repose in the ‘pollution-free environment’.

The fourth micro-architecture zooms in on the scarcity of freshwater. The Spring is a potential solution: it has a device that collects dew and fog to be turned into water supply for drinking and washing. The Défouloir – the ‘fury room’ – is meant for sporting, supporting free movement and autonomy. Contemplation, meanwhile, is all about momentary escape. The raised octagonal structures offer a space for meditation and reflection. 

Frame’s take

While conceptual, Döppel Studio’s series of micro-architectures embodies the kind of iterative design thinking necessary to forge future living models. For so many, micro-living is not a trend but a necessity, and the system facilitates functions – notably ones that support health and wellbeing – that aren’t typically found in small homes, showing that alternative means are very well possible. The designs simply and impressively address today’s foremost ecological and social concerns. A visitor’s ability to test the structures and interact with others in them encourage critical thought alongside the viewing, turning the exhibition experience into an impactful experiment and a call to action.