Imagine a lime green deck floating gracefully over the Schuylkill River, offering breathtaking views of the water and city skyline. This stunning project, known as FloatLab, is a collaboration between Mural Arts and Bartram’s Garden and is set to open to the public in the summer of 2026.
The construction of the 75-foot-wide deck, designed by J. Meejin Yoon and Höweler + Yoon Architecture, will begin this fall. The circular structure with a magnifying glass-inspired center will not only provide a secure platform but also serve as an art installation. FloatLab will be a versatile space, offering access for kayaking, fishing, showcasing art, and providing educational programs – all at no cost to visitors.
The deck is currently being assembled in Hertford, North Carolina, by East Coast Steel Fabrication. Once completed, it will be transported to Philadelphia and installed along the Schuylkill River at Bartram’s Garden in late 2025.
Despite recent safety concerns due to hazardous chemicals leaking into the park from a nearby oil tank farm, the river section where FloatLab will be located has passed safety tests, ensuring visitors can enjoy this unique experience with peace of mind.
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