Bridging engineering and architecture, from the concept stage.
Challenge Developed for the Unbuilt 2025 competition, this sculpture had to be functional and performant, not purely aesthetic. It needs to maximise shaded space, minimise solar exposure, maintain structural integrity, and cast precise shadow patterns at defined times.
Why It Matters In rapidly warming cities, outdoor spaces often become unusable in summer. Sculptures can do more than beautify — they create shaded, comfortable areas for gatherings, events, and exhibits. Balancing shade, glare, airflow, headroom, and integration with the landscape is critical for both usability and artistic vision.
Generative Approach
Parametric Modelling: Captured site, climate, sun-path, comfort goals, materials, and aesthetics; generated panels, perforations, and supports.
Simulation & Optimization: Assessed UTCI values, solar radiation, and canopy usability; refined reinforcement spacing. Trade-offs visualized in real time.
Rapid Variant Generation: Explored multiple geometries and patterns, evaluating shadow coverage, daylight, glare, airflow, and structural feasibility.
Generative Impact
Optimised shaded zones to the full extent of the site and structure, creating comfortable, adaptable spaces for public use
Minimized solar exposure beneath the canopy [X W/m² reduction] while maintaining at least [X m] headroom across [X %] of the usable shaded space.
Refined the structural system to minimize material use and visual clutter, preserving both stability and the sculpture’s patterned shadow.
Applied UTCI modeling to create comfortable microclimates beneath the canopy even during the hottest hours.
