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This unusual bus stop looks a bit like it has a parasitic growth protruding from its side. It is, in fact, an urban intervention by Portuguese firm Like Architects.

functional bus stop sculpture

The project is called Bus Stop Symbiosis,and symbiosis is a better word than parasitic to describe the relationship between the existing structure and the added undulating one.

red panels symbiotic bus stop

In a symbiotic relationship, it is possible for both organisms to benefit. The vaguely worm-like red wood fiber/resin addition benefits by entertaining passers-by and giving them a place to sit.

worm-like symbiotic bus stop

The bus stop benefits because the urban art installation provides them with an interesting object to study while they wait for the bus – most of them, no doubt, wondering what this weird curvy thing might be.

portuguese bus stop symbiotic sculpture

Installed as a temporary installation in an historic district of Largo dos Lóios, Oporto, Portugal, the unusual art object was only present for a short time in 2010.

undulating bus stop sculpture

Contrasting so starkly with its surroundings, the shape and color of the bright red sculpture was a statement about the historic world melding with the modern world.

portugal functional symbiotic bus stop sculpture

A playful and interactive project, the Bus Stop Symbiosis drew attention to the existing structure while adding a fun but somewhat puzzling new element to the bus stop and the entire street.