Project 1 recap:

I came into this project interested in two main ideas which were primarily generated by the fact that I am hoping to in some way link these discoveries/interests to my studio project of designing a tall building (500′). Though somewhat distinct I was hoping to integrate them into a single system. The first idea was that I could design a form which would diffuse and, if necessary, shade daylight. The second idea was that this form should be interesting and dynamic enough that when strategically lit it could become a powerful form/pattern making device. The idea was that this single surface or structure could provide adequate glare free daylighting during the day and at night become an iconic beautifully revealed form.

My first panel, shown as the second set of images here, was based on the geometry of a lobsters eye. The curved form and square opening work together to diffuse and concentrate natural light. Theoretically I found this to be a interesting investigation. The ideas of bio-mimicry interest me quite a bit. However, in practice to be effect I think this approach requires a very scientific, research based process which is difficult to develop in a short time frame. In fact I think the reflectance value of the material I was using was significantly off and the proportions of curvature and depth were probably ineffective as well. I think the simple interlocking eggcrate method of constructing the structure could possibly we continued. The second panel was simply a test in manipulated LEDs, which I think would be a great system for night lighting since it is very controllable and directional. Here I was trying to create a parallel circuit of 12 LEDs so that I had the practical knowledge to implement this lighting system into future projects. I learned a fair amount, though the lighting effects were not particularly interesting unless the photos were taken into order to capture motion and then I found you could in effect paint with the light. For the third panel I wanted to be a little looser and experimental. The first two had a very top down approach so for the third panel I simply played with a variety of simple cutting operations.

For the final project (and for next week):

I think my initial goal to create a dynamic surface which integrates natural day lighting and artificial night lighting is still valid. The first project helped me identify two possible methods of construction which I am interested in and can push forward – eggcrate, and single flexible surface. I think for this next project and into the final I am going to push both of them forward, though in a much more integrated way. The eggcrate will shape the form and the flexible surface will provide the skin. If I can get a handle on it, some selective LED lighting will help reveal the structure. The main obstacle for me is finding an appropriate way to integrate this with studio, and it is difficult because the studio design process is just getting started and is much more complicated.