Mural Arts Philadelphia, in collaboration with Bartram’s Garden, will soon begin construction of FloatLab, a floating art installation designed by renowned artist J. Meejin Yoon and Höweler + Yoon Architecture.
With construction to begin this Fall, the 75-foot-wide floating structure will blend art and engineering to become both a permanent river access point and art piece on the Tidal Schuylkill River at Bartram’s Garden in Southwest Philadelphia.
“Bartram’s Garden is many things to many people, so it’s only fitting a participatory public art project like FloatLab be here along the riverfront to be many things to our community,” said Maitreyi Roy, Executive Director of Bartram’s Garden, in a statement. “This installation is not just an art piece but a vital community resource where people of all ages and backgrounds are welcome.”
FloatLab was designed to become a hub for community engagement, environmental education, and personal reflection upon its public opening, projected for 2026. It will serve multiple purposes, including a classroom, stage, gallery, fishing spot, and kayak launch.
“FloatLab will be a revolutionary platform that redefines how our community interacts with the Schuylkill River,” said Jane Golden, Executive Director of Mural Arts Philadelphia, in a statement. “But it’s more than just a piece of art; it’s going to be a space where people can connect with the water and each other.
“By offering new perspectives and fostering a deeper connection with our ecosystem, it will serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of accessible public art and environmental stewardship,” added Golden. “This project will bring people together, inspire creativity, and provide invaluable educational opportunities for all Philadelphians.”
Designed and brought to life by artist J. Meejin Yoon in collaboration with Höweler + Yoon Architecture, FloatLab’s circular design offers a unique experience by providing a 360-degree view of the river and its surroundings. This intentional design choice allows visitors to take in both the residential and industrial landscapes of Southwest Philadelphia, offering an opportunity to witness the intersection of urban and natural environments.
As people walk around the structure, they will be able to observe the river in a full panorama where the city’s history and nature intertwine. At the center of the circle lies a special pool, framing the river like a giant looking glass, inviting observers to examine it from an entirely new perspective. The design is meant to go beyond aesthetics, encouraging people to rethink our relationship with the environment.
“FloatLab is a convergence of art, architecture, and nature,” stated artist J. Meejin Yoon. “This project is about creating moments of wonder and connection where the everyday experience of the river becomes extraordinary. Mural Arts and Bartram’s Garden have been wonderful stewards of this work, allowing it to be a canvas for community expression, a laboratory for ecological exploration, and a gateway to a deeper understanding of our urban waterways.”
