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Catwalk for Up [øpp] by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Models at a Norwegian fashion event walked along this looping wooden catwalk designed by Oslo studio Gartnerfuglen Architects (+ slideshow).

Gartnerfuglen Architects an a group of volunteers built the wooden structure for Up [øpp], a non-profit biannual fashion show promoting young Norwegian fashion designers.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Located in a nineteenth-century mechanical workshop, the studio designed the three-dimensional runway to make use of the generous space and create an evocative setting without detracting from the clothes.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

"The concept was a three-dimensional walkway making use of both the loftiness and area of the room, creating a poetic and ambient fashion show, with organic motion, gradual transitions and spectacular photo opportunities without stealing focus from the outfits shown on the catwalk," said the architects.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

The models walked up the curving plywood ramp before circling down and underneath the structure in an almost figure-of-eight movement.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Two-by-two lumber sections created a frame with vertical elements that extended above the walkway and cross-bracing between them beneath. Thin rope cordoned the edges higher up for safety.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

The length and shape of the catwalk allowed many outfits to be shown at once and gave the audience an unobstructed view wherever they were positioned.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Previously we've featured catwalk designs for Neil Barrett, which featured an angular tunnel that extended to form the backdrop, and scenography for Viktor & Rolf's Autumn Winter 2013 collection by Studio Job.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

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Up Catwalk, Fall 2013

The second Up fashion show was held in a 19th century mechanical workshop, currently used by a car dealership. Inspired by the spectacular catwalks and extravaganza of the biggest fashion companies, the ambition/challenge was to create the same X-factor at a non-profit event based on volunteer work.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Given the large volume of the space, it was necessary to take on the entire floor area to achieve the spectacularity wanted. We wanted to create a "perfect object", focusing on construction and materiality.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

The concept was a three-dimensional walkway making use of both the loftiness and area of the room, creating a poetic and ambient fashion show, with organic motion, gradual transitions and spectacular photo opportunities without stealing focus from the outfits shown on the catwalk.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Based on a simple, yet sturdy, sequence of frames made from 2x2 lumber, organised in crossing circles, the rigidness of the boards was softened by its organic composition and repetition.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

Assisted by a hard working group of volunteers, this self-built centrepiece structure was finished after a three day workshop. The result was a visually striking object.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects

The catwalk's gliding movement in three dimensions, its height and length, give the outfits good exposure. Several models can appear on the catwalk at the same time, with the different overlapping presentations creating an interesting dynamism.

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects
Rendered plan

In addition to the aesthetic, the catwalk's stretch provided the entire audience with front row seats. The models were also given enough time to show the designs, without making the show monotonous

Catwalk for Up by Gartnerfuglen Architects
Illustration

Spectators were allowed both inside and outside the catwalk circles. It also facilitated logistics to make a seamless event.