wall panel research - vorkurs / mock-play

Vorkurs / Mockplay derives from the idea of engaging with architecture through experimentation in the studio. We investigate the extents of 2D to 3D and 3D to 2D volumetric transformations, where historical mapping projections can be the most relevant precedent. We challenge the preconceptions of folding and unfolding the sphere through virtual investigations of drawing followed by testing through materialization. In the pursuit of new insight, we developed a series of operations such as twisting, stretching, and pinching to alter the 3D manifestations of the sphere and discover how these alterations would affect its unfolded 2D projection. Built experiments revealed a relationship between surface area and form where the unfolded projection would either maintain the surface area of the sphere (but it would considerably deform the object) or it would maintain the overall spherical by altering the original surface area.

deformation experiments

mock-up fabrication

The exploration developed into panelization and how this technique can be applied to design and architecture.  

[below] Fabrication drawing of a composite wall panel that applies the tab system as structure. Mock-up Wall panel exploring the tab system and the extent of deformations that it allows. The panels are made of sheet metal that has been cut and perforated. The tabs are riveted in place to allow for a rigid connection that provides structural support to the system.

[below] Tab system design study to allow for specific scales of deformation.

[below - center] Fabrication drawing applies the tab studies into predictable deformations of the assemblage. Test models of the tab system demonstrate its success to control deformations when designing between 3D and 2D transformations. The tab system allows to design deformations that can be used for all scales of architectural elements such as landscape structures, wall systems, openings, and furniture.

wall panel application

fabrication lab