Status: Competition / Winner
London Festival of Architecture London
Engineer: WhitbyWood 

In 2018, Scott Whitby Studio, in collaboration with WhitbyWood engineers, won an international design competition, earning the opportunity to craft the flagship project for the London Festival of Architecture – the 'Modern Maypole.' This intricate tower, comprising 32 golden maypoles, each symbolising a London borough, was conceived not just as a structural marvel but as a gift to our city's civic fabric, promising to leave an enduring legacy. Our appointment for this prestigious endeavour was guided by a client's aspiration to create a contemporary emblem of London's unity and evolution. They sought a beacon that would eloquently encapsulate the diverse identity of each borough while being a source of inspiration for generations to come. Our mission was to design a dynamic, yet temporary, landmark that could rekindle a sense of connection to London's rich history while symbolising its ever-transforming skyline.

We envisaged a 'Modern Maypole' that celebrated London's spirit of unity and change through a unique fusion of artistry and engineering. Inspired by the groundbreaking 'tensegrity' concept introduced by Snelson and Fuller, our design seamlessly wove together anodized aluminum poles and slender steel wires in the creation of an elegant beacon that appears to gracefully defy gravity. The design was a harmonious dance between the ethereal and the robust, a testament to the poetry of materials and the brilliance of structural artistry.

Embedded within this project was a subtle commitment to sustainability. Without fanfare, our 'Modern Maypole' design was poised to extend its legacy, echoing the spirit of reusability. Upon dismantling, these golden poles were destined to schools and community organisations across London, echoing the sustainable ethos of giving back to the community. In this quiet act of repurposing, we underlined our dedication to the environment, creating a legacy that transcended mere aesthetics."

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