Orbital
My final project in my first quarter in the architectural program, Orbit was the result of an assignment to create a place that reflects the Japanese tea ceremony ideal of Ichi-Go Ichi-E, roughly translated to ‘once in a lifetime.’ I used inspiration from bubbles on the surface of a water fountain, and sought to express the pattern in 2 dimensions. Moving to 3d, I found an orrery of sorts in this pattern, and I used this structure to help push me in the direction of the result, a series of consecutive walls that rotate around a small central space. I created multiple models to help me find possibilities. This expression of the cosmic reality of constant change was what I finally represented with hand drawn elevations and sections. As I have had time, I have added to this concept by defining the spaces that could be made and representing them.
First I observed bubbles to consider their temporary nature, and that their joyful spirit is unique to each experience.
I then moved to a three dimensional study, where I discovered this orrery pattern, another device that reflects the idea of impermanence, but on a much larger scale. This universal energy of change, within an enveloping of a shape like an orbit or the sphere created by surface tension led me to my design.
After exploring iterations to emulate this ever changing envelope of space, I found inspiration in a few forms that were sitting on my desk as I played with some plain paper models. This led to the designs of Orbital, a circular structure nestled into a wall, made of concrete movable walls.
A model that allows the movement of walls and exploring the possibilities of this movement.
The true beauty of this project comes through when the intended space to be used for 2-3 people at a time, can be also utilized at times to host large groups for different uses. A maze for two can open to a theatre stage.
