This project is concerned with the simultaneous existence of a frame and envelope in one surface and how this is achieved through active techniques of surface patterning such as tufting or embossment. Its composite nature and unique bounding conditions challenge the externality of the traditional building enclosure through their hierarchical tendency towards the interior surface patterning as the site of investigation in order to redefine the form of exterior. This inversion of the envelope acts on an intimate level with the composite surface using the magnification of the walls minimal connections to dictate the larger design of the projects form.
We remain honest to the fundamental point surface system witnessed in Kanno, using the expansive field of connections between two independent surfaces to author control over the spatial configuration of cellular packing the monolithic nature of the repetitive pattern in elevation illustrates the advantages of a layered system when experience in section, objectifying the point connections as the link between the orthogonal views.
To best articulate the internal logic of cellular packing while maintaining the original system of point-surface connections, we looked at fabric tufting as a similar surface treatment. In many ways like the composite steel skin of the Kanno Museum, tufting maintains a series of point connections between two surfaces creating instances of shared boundary conditions.
Kanno Museum Wall section and proposed wall section diagram
A variable thickness of the walls surface is achieved by manipulating the depth and bulge of a tuft in order to hide the previously visible connections between internal wall panels. The Interstitial space between walls that results from these connections to the exterior membrane is resolved through a stretching of the surface to meet another surface.
Model made using a 3-axis CNC milling to create 11 unique molds. A thermo-forming machine was used to create a formed surface using PETG plastic. Base is milled from walnut.
UNROLLED ELEVATION
