Our energy transition demands the integration of a large number of new medium-voltage units into already dense public spaces, where the current concrete box proves inadequate, both physically and visually.

Currents rethinks these objects by treating the city as a continuous flow of movement and activity, shaping form in response to its surroundings. This leads to a shift toward softer, more rounded geometries that better accommodate everyday use, wear, and perception. At the same time, strict technical and economic requirements, protection, accessibility, scalability, and efficiency, define clear constraints, alongside the need to maintain human scale and visual permeability in the street.

Through an iterative design process, Currents develops a coherent family of octagonal objects with a flattened roof, modest, recognizable, and adaptable to varied urban contexts. Conceived as objects rather than architecture, they integrate functional elements such as doors and ventilation subtly within a system of replaceable panels, reducing visual noise and vulnerability to vandalism. Material variations and surface treatments allow local expression while maintaining a consistent language. Compact in footprint and low in height, the units preserve sightlines and spatial continuity, forming a flexible and scalable system that meets technical demands while integrating into the diverse fabric of Dutch public space.

Client: IABR

In collaboration with City of Rotterdam, City of Amsterdam, Stedin, Vattenval, Eneco, Liander. Batenburg.

Alongside our studio OFFICE KGDVS was also invited to propose a vision for this research.

Assistants: Mikołaj Cichocki. Titouan Longatte