New York City, NY

Spring 2023, Columbia University GSAPP

Collaborators: Saba Ardeshiri, Angela Keele, Julie Kim, Carley Pasqualotto, + Maclane Regan

Located on the South Lawn of Avery Hall, The HUG is an inflatable, lightweight pavilion that welcomes all members of the Columbia community to rest and recharge, literally. Our pavilion thrives off three photovoltaic panels connected to internal and external systems that allow the pavilion to become a hub of energy. Internally, The HUG is strategically designed to hold up to 1,300 lbs of sand for weight countering, a large PV battery which stores energy from the solar panels and runs the LED light strips and device charging stations. Externally, The HUG acts as a space of reprieve, allowing users to control their environment and unwind from the chaos of school. In addition to the functional elements of The HUG, our pavilion also centers around comfort. Worm-like legs meet the ground to become “huggable” pieces for the students, faculty, and families. These legs are filled with recycled foam and donated clothing which will be taken to a local shelter to continue our positivity within our community.