Design • First year

Folding Space

Often within architecture, there is a required function, and so a structure is developed. In this particular project, a volume was formed first before a function was given. Different  folding techniques were tested on A3 bond papers to construct an artistic form. A subsequent analysis of the volume personalities and qualities are then undertaken to decide on the form’s most suitable function e.g. a basketball court or a retreat study in a rural setting.

Overall, the intention of this project is to simulate the architect in the real world, where they present their design ideas as illustration to colleagues so that the project will be built according to their design intentions.

I wanted to create a simple but complex design from the start. Like nature, simple but with underlying intricacy. Whilst strolling in the campus, I saw this decaying branch of a palm tree and it has become my inspiration. As it decomposes, it started to warp into a new form and on its curves were another small complex ripples.
Through research and testing different paper folding techniques, I found that I can mimic the curvature and qualities of the decaying branch with one crease technique. The following images below are step by step instructional photos and hand drawn illustrations so that it can be recreated by others.
The qualities and personality of my volume is leaning more towards the function of a retreat study in a rural setting. Its simple organic form created two instant well defined complex spaces, which I can easily use as covered and partly covered areas for the study. Its concealing nature echoes a place of refuge, seclusion or privacy. The same qualities a retreat study would posses.
The volume has various habitable ceiling heights ranging from 3.5m (the lowest) to 7m as the highest from natural grade line. It is suggesting for a more intimate function. Perfect for a retreat study. The interior spaces offers different views framed by unique openings created by the volume itself. Its free flowing shape allows the structure envelope to be easily mounted to the ground. Some parts of it sits directly on the ground and some parts like the floors stays afloat.
The study area, kitchenette and toilet make up the covered areas. To benefit from passive solar heating on winter and passive cooling in summer, the study faces northwest with the kitchen and toilet centrally located for easy access. Students also need to break away from long study periods. The semi outdoor area encourages yoga and meditation for relaxation. Meanwhile, students can also chill at the outdoor space at the rear of the structure which is joined by a long spacious deck to the semi-outdoor.
A quick hand drawn illustration of the study area