Differentiated Topographies I

Differentiated Topographies I is a prototype-based exploration of an aggregated structure with non-orthogonal alignment of components that is focused on combinatorial, structural, and pliant aspects of the aggregated structure. The work is informed by combinatorial design strategies, serial repetition, and skeletal morphology of some organisms in nature (such as sea star). The aim of the project is to design a light structure made of small self-similar components with significant combinatorial capacity. The project involved definition of the component shape, exploration of patterns that produce variety of arrangements, and observation of structural aspects of the produced aggregations.

Combinatorial strategies in the project were driven by tectonic forms that facilitate rigid (self-supporting) and pliant (flexible) structural capacities. Permutations were generated that support change in directionality and form; these discrete assemblies were combined into larger formations to examine their tectonic and spatial capacities.

| Design Principal: Vera Parlac |

| Research Assistant: Stephen Holman and Cody Kupper |