Bubblewrap Store

NYC, USA

The BubblePop.Up Shop is a cubic modular retail store which utilizes bubble wrap as a triple-skin façade.  The shop utilizes a two-in-one modular structural skeleton // shelf display system.  Bubble wrap encases all modules in a waterproof skin, thereby providing insulation, transparency, and interactive texture.  The BubblePop.Up Shop illuminates at night, with possibilities for a unique glowing pixel display to showcase merchandise within. As a completely pre-fabricated design, the shop can be quickly assembled on-site with only 2-3 people.

The BubblePop.Up Shop is constructed with stacked cubic modules.  Each cubic module consists of 4 sides of compressed recycled cardboard, capped with 1 side of .5 inch Lexan plastic.  Lexan, a type of polycarbonate resin thermoplastic, is extremely tough, theft-resistant, and light-weight. The modular cubes are stacked to form a 200 ft2 cubic structural skeleton which simultaneously forms the shop’s shelving system.  Colored squares can be applied to the Lexan surfaces to create a unique visual display.  During the day, colored squares appear as stained glass from the interior of the shop.  At night, this glowing pixel display can advertise specific brands or pictograms to customers passing by.

Three layers of recycled bubble wrap are applied as the façade of the shop. Bubble wrap encases all modules in a waterproof skin, thereby providing insulation, transparency, and interactive texture.  During the day, natural sunlight filters through the bubble wrap.  At night, interior lighting is diffused outward, vividly illuminating the cube.  Bubble wrap also possesses shock-isolating properties, thereby supporting an earthquake-resistant design.

The cubic modules can also be separated and rearranged into interactive structures for members of the local community!  Some possible reconfigurations include: café and lounge, child playground, art gallery/exhibition space, interactive art installation, concert stage, homeless shelter, and chill-out furniture for locals and tourists alike.

Team: Leon Lai, Eric Tan, Nicolai Schlapps, Fabian Busse