architecture landscape sculpture
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baku sfera

baku sfera

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baku sfera
a glass observatory tells the time with sunlight
at night, a slice of glowing moon
stacked layers of glass, a clear pantheon of light

 
 
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The Baku Sfera is a twenty-five meter diameter glass astronomical device that tells the time with light. The structure is constructed entirely of layers of stacked glass bonded together with adhesive film.

Perched on the edge of a hill and mirrored in a pool, the observatory is entered from below up one of three spiralling staircases. Recessed coffers provide 12 inward-looking seats and 12 outward-looking apertures for views of the city and the Caspian Sea. Within, a beam of light projects through the red-rimmed oculus to mark the passage of time, day by day from season to season.

 
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Commissioned by the Major of Baku for the commemoration park that overlooks the city, the Baku Sfera creates a destination and a tourist attraction. Entry to the stacked glass globe is through a pool of water in which the glowing sculpture is reflected. The coffered dome is made of water-jet cut stacked and bonded glass 25mm thick. Internally the tripartite spiralling stair leads to perimeter seats with city views. The red disc of coloured glass at the oculus aligns to internal calibrations that mark specific times and dates.

 
 
 
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location baku, azerbaijan
area 960 sqm
status 2012
structure glass ltd