Power to Miami is all about the city's energy. The sun shines in Miami 73% of the time, making it one of the sunniest cities in the US. So why do we see so few solar panels here? Miami could in fact become energy self-sufficient by relying solely on the sun's energy. The installation will enhance the Design District by providing both shade and energy in a beautiful, visually impactful form. During the day the parasols harvest solar energy, and in the evening they offer a warm light through integrated LEDs. The canopies feature organic, colorful solar cells combined in dynamic patterns that cast pleasant, unexpected shadows. The support structures are outfitted with solar-powered USB charging stations, as well as small texts and QR codes that allow guests to learn more about Miami's local solar movement and even donate directly to support local standout Solar United Neighbors' efforts to make solar available to everyone.

The Firm / Designers

Marjan van Aubel is an award-winning solar designer whose innovative practice spans the fields of sustainability, design, and technology. In collaboration with scientists and institutions such as Swarovski, van Aubel works to promote extreme energy efficiency through intelligent design. Since graduating from the Royal College of Art, van Aubel has exhibited at world-class institutions like the London Design Museum and Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Her work is also part of the permanent collections of MoMA, Vitra Design Museum, Boijmans van Beuningen Museum, Montreal Museum of Art, and the National Gallery of Victoria in Australia.