Burbujas is the Spanish word for ‘bubbles’. Burbujas is a permanent exhibition located within the well-known “Papalote, Children’s Museum.”
Unlike other rooms and exhibits with a more defined and guided narrative, Burbujas is a space that offers an organic experience where children can explore and play with shapes and colors within a dynamic and immersive atmosphere.
The concept of illumination for this exhibition resulted from analyzing the light behaviour on the surface of bubbles, including the phenomenon known as interference. This optical effect occurs when light is refracted through the extremely thin liquid surface of soap floating in the air, creating a unique color palette. Based on this analysis, we collaborated with the Museum’s Experience Department to design both the interior space and the lighting.
The colour range on the perimeter of the room was carefully selected to evoke the iridescent effect of light on bubbles. The dynamics of light, combined with the shapes on the vertical surfaces and the depth achieved through mirrors, create the luminous atmosphere that envelops the space.
In the area of the soap tubs, the use of high-optical-control projectors allows for elevated light levels and the creation of high contrasts to enhance reflection and the iridescent effect.
By combining the ambient light layer around the perimeter with the accent light zone in the center, the playful experience is heightened, contributing to the enjoyment of children of all ages.
From the beginning, the Museum’s Experience and Museography areas requested a lighting project that would completely transform the space and the visitors’ experience, what lead us to get involved with a design proposal for the interiors of the space, all based on the light effects that we were envisioning. That included the design of circular panels evoking the shape of bubbles, the color palette, and materials to enhance the space ambiance. Ultimately, this became a great opportunity to design the space based on the desired luminous environment.
The second challenge was the short timeline, with two months for the project and two months for its execution. We developed a 3D model that served to understand the space itself, and to make some calculations that helped us anticipate the relationships between light, space, and people.
