Development of computational design methods and processes

“Nilas” is a sculpture designed for the exhibition “Light Houses: On the Nordic Common Ground” by Eero Lundén, Markus Wikar and Toni Österlund. It represents an approach to building systems where skin, structure and technical appliances are all integrated into one responsive building fabric.

The aim of the project was to research and develop computational design methods and processes. The design sought inspiration from different organic forms, natural systems and fractal patterns found in our natural environment. The idea was to design a fluent, yet complex, three-dimensional sculpture based on the theme of “light houses”. The design process aimed for the creation of a physical object and to find the delicate balance between organic complexity and artistic representation. The selected design system was developed to transform simple geometric solids into complex geometric objects.

The final form of the sculpture gradually emerged through long tests and re-iterations, as the same design process can produce infinite amount of variations. The final sculpture has a smooth and less detailed surface compared to some of the design explorations done during the process.

In the end, the final design was formed also through the chosen fabrication method of laser cutting 2mm acrylic sheets and the material properties of the clear acrylic. The smooth and clear physical object reflects and refracts light in a similar way as melting ice, creating playful patterns on surfaces.

The Nilas Lighthouse sculpture represent architectural vision and creative digital sculpturing, combined with the possibilities of computational design and manufacturing methods.