Viewpoint Floating Platform by AOR Architecture is unveiled in London's King's Cross

The floating platform placed on the river is constructed out of wood and is in the shape of three triangles that are connected.

The Viewpoint is a new floating platform by emerging Finnish architects Erkko Aarti, Arto Ollila and Mikki Ristola (AOR), sited on a canal in London's King's Cross.

(Image credit: John Sturrock)

By Leigh Theodore Vlassis

last updated 11 October 2022

in Features

Viewpoint, the floating platform in Camley Street Natural Park, is the latest addition to the burgeoning King's Cross scene. An initiative from The London Wildlife Trust, commissioned by The Finish Institute in London and The Architecture Foundation, it was designed by emerging Finish architects Erkko Aarti, Arto Ollila and Mikki Ristola (AOR).

The permanent installation's inspiration was taken from the rocky sanctuaries and small islands traditionally found in the Scandinavian Peninsula. The structure's 'humble attitude towards nature', as explained by Mikki Ristola, allows visitors to withdraw from the hustle and bustle of London's city life and take a moment to take-in, admire and view through the soft oak peek holes, the hidden serenity that this secluded National Park bestows.

The floating platform is being placed on the river. The photo is taken from higher ground. — The Viewpoint is the initiative of The London Wildlife Trust, commissioned by The Finish Institute in London and The Architecture Foundation

The floating platform is being placed on the river by a crane. — The Viewpoint's floating platform came prefabricated and was craned into the site at Camley Street Natural Park

The floating platform placed on the river is constructed out of wood and is in the shape of three triangles that are connected. Two people are sitting on the platworm. — The structure - which takes cues from the rocky sanctuaries and small islands traditionally found in the Scandinavian Peninsula - will sit permanently at the King's Cross site, allowing visitors to withdraw from the hustle and bustle of London's city life, enjoying the hidden serenity of the park.