Into the Clouds!

For the model explorations, we have explored it in terms of form, structure, surface treatment, interiors, and stem directional logic. Each of the components will then be evaluated and combined to form the final 1:50 model.

A fallen form

The notion of fallen clouds challenges the imagination of the user, leading them to question the phenomenon. The fallen clouds derive their form from the act of falling. Galileo’s catenary equation on the curving of a chain under gravitational force is studied to aid in the form finding process. This theory is then applied to the site to obtain a set of forms specific to the existing site. Several points were selected within the boundary and a software plug-in is used to generate the free falling curves. This set also explored the effects of gravity on architecture and how users could interact with this notion.

A fallen form | 1
Catenary curve exploration 1

A fallen form | 2
Catenary curve exploration 2

A fallen form | 3
Broken cloud exploration

A structure

Clouds are intangible objects. With this playground, the aim is to make them solid and tangible: to allow what the unengaged imagination may view as impossible. By doing this, it allows children to realise that anything is possible and encourage them to open their imaginations infinitely. This set explores the frameworks that can potentially hold an otherwise intangible cloud. With the aid of 123D Make and Grasshopper, techniques such as waffling have been tested to visualise a possible support structure. The negative spaces will contain surface elements that can be installed and updated regularly to continuously engage repeat users.

A structure | 1
Regular grid waffling exploration

A structure | 2
Waffling exploration 1

A structure | 3
Waffling exploration 2

A tactile cloud

Surface treatment can influence the way a child engages with the objects around it, and it can also inform the way the structure can be used. In this set we explored methods that would be constructive in: enriching the child’s imagination and engagement with the object, creating a multi-purpose surface, and recognising the theme of the cloud. This exploration can also inform the properties of surface treatments for structures used in “a fallen form” and “a convergence sets."