Hou de Sousa, a design studio founded by Nancy Hou and Josh de Sousa, is redefining urban spaces with their innovative architectural installations and large-scale sculptures. Based in New York, the award-winning team uses vibrant colors and glowing lighting effects to create interactive pieces that transform public squares and thoroughfares into engaging experiences for visitors.
One of their notable installations, “Bubble,” features a colorful geometric dome structure with various facets and openings that invite people to explore and interact with the space. Similarly, “Star Light Star Bright” on Broadway in New York City draws inspiration from wish trees, encouraging visitors to tie ribbons representing their hopes and desires. As ribbons are added, the pavilion transforms into a glowing winter wonderland, symbolizing interconnectedness and universal hope.
In the Flatiron District, the studio installed “Tulips,” which reimagine lamp posts as giant flowers reaching towards the sky. These whimsical public artworks add a touch of whimsy to the urban landscape, inviting people to gather and appreciate their surroundings in a new light.
Next on the studio’s agenda is an 8,000-pound steel sculpture titled “Poly,” set to debut in Sarasota, Florida, this winter. With each installation, Hou de Sousa continues to push the boundaries of traditional architecture, creating immersive experiences that spark joy and connection within the community.
To explore more of their projects, visit the studio’s website and Instagram page. And if you’re in the mood to support independent arts publishing, consider becoming a Colossal Member to access exclusive benefits like ad-free browsing, saved articles, discounts in the Colossal Shop, members-only newsletters, and the opportunity to give back to K-12 classrooms by donating art supplies.
