The water bubble has been the inspiration for some fascinating architecture as of late. A study of the structure of bubbles led to the impressive National Aquatics Center in Beijing, which the world lovingly dubbed the Water Cube. Now the fascinating globule is showing up in the form of a floating stage on the Han River of South Korea. The product of architecture firm kyungam architects, Diliter, dancing light and water, is part of an effort known as the Han River Renaissance Master Plan.

Diliter Floating Stage. Designed by kyungam architects.

With a seating capacity of 2,200 people, Diliter spans 24 meters wide. Its two floors accommodate a stage, seating area, and control room, which is secreted on the second floor. An arch structure supports four rotating doors that can open or close depending on the needs and desires of its users. Completely enclose the floating stage during the winter; open one door in the fall; halfway in the spring; or completely during the summer. LEDs, lasers, and fountains put on a show during the night, bringing together three of nature’s four elements: water, fire, and wind. It’s the modern day equivalent of a Pink Floyd laser light show at the local planetarium (anyone besides me remember those?).

Diliter Floating Stage will be used mostly for musical performances and cultural events sponsored by Seoul City, though it may be rented out for special events such as weddings. During the day, the outside of the dome can act as a billboard to broadcast the weather. The structure has a barge structure that allows the stage to float—not too difficult when the upper dome is a steel frame covered with lightweight materials. The dome shape refracts light, as do the iridescent materials, mimicking the most exciting features of soap bubbles dancing in the sunlight.