Working with Manjunath

PROCESS

Initially, the idea was to create a steel structure where smaller steel members come together and form a long-span self-supporting shell structure that could become an exhibition hall, gathering space, etc. Here, the smaller steel members were connected together using space frames which could form the entire structure. The desired form was not working well with the intent of the workshop since the steel members weren’t weaved together in order to create a form, the members also failed at supporting the larger structure, since the members at the corner points(where the load would be distributed) were thin.

Taking our learnings forward a new form was imagined where a steel column was used as a module. Each of these modules uses the idea of balanced branches to form a structure where the angle of branching out can also be controlled according to the necessity. The four steel members, branching out; are attached to steel cable wires by turnbuckles. These wires are then passed down through a central steel column, which is then regulated by a pulley system that can be operated using a plus shaped block, accessible to the users.

Reflections

How a building should grow in the process rather than be thought of as an object to be built. Starting the design process from details ensures the design progress from a micro level to macro, helping to keep the intent in place. The workshop helped to actually practice the philosophy of thinking about the smaller detailed things which form the crux of a structure. The experience of a space doesn’t only depend on it’s form but also the material and the assembly of the material.

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