2084: DIORAMA OF THE FUTURE
Alcova / Milan Design Week. April 2024
2084: DIORAMA OF THE FUTURE is an architectural speculation on the challenges of the post-Anthropocene era. The scenario explores the reconstruction of a near future in which some cities are deserted while others endure extreme conditions, direct consequences of the climate emergency. Amidst this turbulence, a diverse group of human and non-human explorers parachutes into 2084, facing the challenges of survival and reconstruction.
Designed by MAIA students, the project transforms part of the historic annexes of Villa Bagatti Valsecchi into a dynamic and performative diorama, inviting visitors to reflect on contemporary environmental and societal dilemmas. While 19th-century dioramas always presented romanticized visions of exotic natures behind glass screens that detached visitors from their complexities, Diorama of the Future places them right at the center of damaged environments, calling for new ecosystemic actions. In this large climatic device, both students and visitors take on the role of inhabitants of a changing vivarium, whose evolution problematizes the relationship between vision, habitat, and climate change.
The project was designed by MAIA students under the direction of Youri Kravtchenko, assisted by Cecile-Diama Samb, and presented at Alcova for Milan Design Week 2024. Its three main parts (The Nap, The Camp, The Treat) will be integrated into the MAIA classrooms at HEAD – Genève after the Salone as performative devices to explore and conceptualize new interior ecologies.
THE NAP
For some years now, the world's directives have been in agreement: governments have simply decided to abandon the idea of rest and sleep as obstacles to productivity. In the midst of this desolation, a small group of refugees is defying the suffocating grip of this decision. Together, they have woven a large nomadic bed that can withstand the scorching rays of the sun during the day and provide a place to sleep anywhere at night.
The Nap is a succession of sheaths made from anti-radiation fabric filled with cotton insulation, spherical polycarbonate lamps, ropes, and steel tubes. Designed by Alexandra Miskufova and Valentina Pantalena.
THE CAMP
Condemned to a form of indefinite transhumance, the climate refugees decided to think as much about the means of their survival as about breaking the boredom. The torrential rain, the increased exposure to various waves, and above all, the scorching sun forced them to come up with a tent that was as protective as it was transportable. A "Swiss army knife" box unfolds into a space dedicated to celebration. A multi-purpose shape conceals the long table on which glasses, plates, and tools clash.
The Tent is made from shaped anodized aluminum tubes with a two-layer fabric: aluminum to protect against waves and black and white striped fabric to protect against water and rain. The trolley is based on a hijacked bicycle trolley, with a body made of heat-welded aluminum, CNC cut, and a solar panel. Designed by Ségolène Davister, Natalia Krymskaya, and Marie Torrione.
THE TREAT
"If they behave well and do the job, let's give them a little treat to keep them coming back." This is essentially the trap that companies thought they could set for workers continuing their exodus from the world of work. This ironic rocket was conceived as a kitchen drone by the food giants of the 2080s under the title "Plaisir d'Offrir."
The Treat: A cupboard made from solid, stained MDF, covered with anodized aluminum sheets. Chromed steel legs. Marble, oak, hob. Designed by Andreas Laskaris and Marie Schild.
