Studio PAULBAUT Paul Kweton, AIA
2018
Designer
Paul Kweton, Hidekazu Takahashi, Ami Patel
Moebius - Considering parametric modularity as a design recipe
Abstract
How does form inform functionality, program, behavior? To what extent does pure form, parametrically generated based on mathematical algorithms, inform, effect (human) behavior? How does legibility of modularity change with scale and do we need to see/experience/engage with the whole to understand its parts and vice versa? Frierich Kielser wrote the following: -Form does not follow function, rather, it follows vision and should seek a reconciliation between dream and reality. In itself, form is therefore weak; its space of interiority is wholly familiar, despite the presence of unfamiliar shapes.- The investigation and delivery of a design (module) comprised of perpetual modularity, material efficiency and certain scale in conjunction with its effect on space and (human) behavior form the core thesis and research topic of this residency. The Moebius strip and parametric modularity define our morphological framework for our physical form exploration. The Moebius Strip, a one-sided non-orientable surface, which looks like an infinite loop but also self-contained entity, can be mathematically represented by parameters based on the topological definition as the rotation of a line segment around a circle. This parameterization seems compatible to the modularity in our design approach. Modularity makes it possible for design to evolve in a localized fashion which can lead to the emergence of modular clusters as part of a whole. Modularity is arguably suitable to the Moebius Strip as a framework in term of its characteristic of autonomy and mathematical aspect. The principle of modularity is based on repetition, adjacencies and relations of parts, modules to each other. The detailing of connection points and components are crucial for a successful module based design process/solution.
Size
3 Foot Diameter
Material
Aluminum, waterjet-cut
Light Source
LED Tube
Photos
Paul Hester