KOURKOPOULOS ELEFTHERIOS
KOURKOPOULOS ELEFTHERIOS ARCHITECT & DESIGNER
SELECTED WORKS 2015 - 2020
TABLE OF CONTENTS
“CIRCLE is” CREMATORIUM IN PATRAS
DIPLOMA THESIS
ARCTIC SETTLEMENT
professional work
academic work
academic work
DANUBE RIVER BRIDGE
HORMONERGY
academic work
academic work
POTENTMORPH
academic work
“Circle is” - CREMAT ORIUM IN PATRAS
“Circle is” - CREMATORIUM IN PATRAS | 2019 professional work
This project is the entry for a cremation center competition in Patras. Greece, designed by the TTDZ design team. A wide variety of components were composed together and resulted in the final design. A circular perforated fence was placed around the area in order to reduce the optical contact from the road and render the cremation center more private. The landscaping was designed as a patchwork of different elements, where the ashes of the deceased could be spread. The main building of the cremation centered was designed in a conventional way, so as to follow the regulations closely and give prominence to the main gate and the dome, which consisted the focal points of the design. Regarding the dome, which was incorporated in the ritual hall, a wooden waffle-like structure was used in order to diffuse the light evenly, while the inner side of the dome was sculpted, so as to add elements of significance around the area where the body of the deceased would be placed. exploded diagram of components
masterplan
landscape rendering
ritual hall rendering
sections and elevations
gate rotation diagram
process of gate embossment creation
The gate of the ritual hall acted as an allegory, incorporating elements of sacred scenes from a wide array of religions in order to reduce religious discriminations. To design the gate, a collage was created, combining numerous religious symbols. Afterwards, the collage was used as a map in computational tools, so as to emboss the surface of the gate. The proposed design method of the gate is CNC milling.
DIPLOMA THESIS
ANTI-DESERTIFICATION UNITS | 2019 academic work To address the global sand crisis and desertification menace, this project proposes a mechanism in order to rejuvenate barren lands by using bio-domes. To elaborate, the project follows a speculative path and proposes structures in the desert of Saudi-Arabia, capable of hosting human and plant life under extreme conditions. In chosen locations, permeable biodomes provide shading and water supply, through an artificial water cycle, rendering the area viable for plantations. Consequently, via the use of contemporary technologies, micro-climates are established, which allow a gradual growth of an ecosystem, both inside and outside of the structure. Throughout the project, a seamless process is proposed, which can be altered according to the conditions of each location. Moreover, the highly adaptable nature of the process stimulates and incites trans disciplinary collaboration. Hence, this project constitutes simultaneously a prototype and a case-study of the process mentioned above.
complex top view
enclosure bio-dome top view
sand particle movement and field simulations
experiments Simulation was chosen both as a design tool, as well as a method of understanding and exploration. As a result, a grand portion of the thesis was dedicated to understanding the movement of sand particles by the wind and integrating that into a design process which took into account the environmental parameters of the area. Computational tools and pipelines were used as a field of connections and interactive behaviors in order to bridge the gaps between the different factors which interacted with each other and explore emergent behaviors. Hence, the design of the bio-domes followed a similar path. The structural principles of sand dunes and the movement of wind and sand were merged and resulted into the final bio-dome form.
prototypes prototype for aquatic plant preservation
particle movement in 3D space
prototype for exterior pavilion
prototype for environment enclosure
particle movement in karman-vortex-street field
particle movement using sand dune formation principles
exploded diagram of factor interactivity
physical model photographs
accommodation bio-dome rendering
In order to insert the human factor in this project, a complex of three bio-domes was proposed. Each with a different focus and use. To explain, a bio-dome of aquatic plantation provided fertile conditions for and aquatic ecosystem. A second bio-dome incorporated infrastructure for farming (both traditional and aquaponics) and residences for temporary accommodation. Lastly, a large bio-dome provided the necessary conditions for artificial temperate climates, through the use of layered structures, each providing more controlled conditions. To conclude, the bio-domes where connected by outdoor paths, which allow both pedestrian transportation and transportation by car. Furthermore, stations were designed which provided shading.
ARCTIC SETTLEMENT
ARCTIC SETTLEMENT | 2021 academic work This project aims to develop a self-sufficient settlement in Ilulissat, Greenland. The project involves the development of an autonomous settlement capable to accommodate a population of a thousand individuals and the relocated UK arctic research center. In this project, a settlement comprising of nine clusters is proposed. Each cluster is constructed following a modular logic. That is, a kit of discrete parts was proposed to accommodate for different timescales of habitation or response to climate change cues. The main area of interest in this project was the utilization of computational methods in response to environmental and contextual changes. Hence, a multitude of different computational methods were employed to form a procedural workflow. Partcularly, a DEM-based analysis informs a ranking system for the allocation of well-performing locations for each cluster. A modified voxel aggregation script was developed to respond to structural and orientational criteria. Moreover, a space colonization algorithm was used for the generation of internal networks. Finally, wave-function collapse, in conjunction with genetic algorithms aided in the precise allocation of functions and aggregation of the discrete parts.
Aspect of Cluster
Perspective Section of Cluster
Masterplan
Utilizing data from the DEM-based site analysis, well-performing locations for the clusters were spotted. The clusters were then procedurally generated on each location according to the settlement’s programs and their connectivity to adjacent clusters. Each cluster is generated using a voxel aggregation algorithm based on principles of structural integrity, proximity and orientation. Each voxel represents a volume of 5m x 5m x 5m. This process allowed for exploration of different timescales of inhabitations and progressive assembly and expansion of the cluster. Even distribution and modified space colonization algorithms were developed to segregate the aggregation into functional modules. Furthermore, space syntax graphs informed a wave-function collapse algorithm to procedurally allocate the functions, while a genetic algorithm allowed for precise control over this process.
Aggregation for 100 inhabitants
Module Aggregation
Function Allocation of Level 3
Aggregation for 200 inhabitants
Placement of Vertical Circulation
Function Allocation of Level 2
Aggregation for 350 inhabitants
Corridor Modules (Horizontal Circulation)
Lightwells
Function Allocation of Level 1
Version of Aggregation
Diagrammatic Floorplan
Diagrammatic Section
Aside from function allocation, wave-function collapse was also used for the morphology of the cluster’s modules. Particularly, a set of discrete parts was designed and assembled according to rules of adjacency. Each module is divided into twelve parts. Each part is replaced with the corresponding discrete pre-fabricated element. Additionally, the modules facing primary orientations of wind are allocated a different part, so as to render the cluster for aerodynamic. Lastly, the glass panels are selected using a percentage and logic, which allows for the correlation of window panes to energy and thermal efficiency. The modular system developed in this project played a crucial role in this project, as it constitutes a responsive system to environmental changes and allows for rapid deployment, assembly and relocation.
Solid Elements
Aspect of Module
Discrete Parts
Module Segregation
Frames
Glass Panes
DANUBE RIVER BRIDGE
DANUBE RIVER BRIDGE | 2018 academic work
concept of the bridge’s formation
conceptual sketches of urban spaces
axonometric diagram and explanation of uses
elevation of the bridge
In this design studio, the design of a bridge in Budapest, Hungary was proposed, as a way to bridge the two shores of the Danube river. This particular proposal centers around the conceptual approach of the bridge as an active urban space, rather than a mere passage. Hence, the bridge was combined with four cubical structures which housed unique uses. A design goal was the combination of pedestrian and cyclist routes with monolith-like structures, where passing civilians can witness unique urban events. Moreover, the large size of the structures was chosen as a mean of awe provocation to the visitors.
diagram of open-air concert hall
diagram of urban vertical garden
diagram of urban baths
diagram of open-air digital media exhibition space
Each cubical structure was connected with a particular use, which determined the design decisions made. To elaborate, a concert hall was design as a cave, so as to mimic the acoustics of it. An open-air digital media exhibition space made use of layered surfaces, in order to exhibit works on the structure itself. Urban baths made use of the full height of the monolith and incorporated an artificial waterfall as a focal point. Lastly, a vertical botanical garden inspired awe to the visitor, while offering a unique experience. The design principle and goal behind each cube was the stimulation of the visitor’s senses and provide unique urban spaces to the citizens of Budapest. Moreover, by designing in such a large scale, the bridge aimed to create a landmark for the city of Budapest, which would attract visitors from the broadened area of Europe.
perspective section
HORMONERGY
L-System | Possible Paths
Agent Simulation
Horizontal Sections
HORMONERGY | 2020 academic work
Final Form
This project constitutes a study on the application of natural behaviors observed on social insects on architectural cases. The end product of the process is an installation bound in a 3m x 3m x 3m volume. For the development of the project, a workflow comprising of a multitude of computational tools was followed. In particular, an underlying L-system is generated, informed by structural data, . This consists a network of potential routes that the agents can follow. Using the L-System, a custom agent simulation is run, following the studied behavior of ants. and principles of stigmergy, such as pheromone secretion. Finally, the final form is generated utilizing a marching cubes algorithm.
L-System | Possible Paths
Agent Simulation
Alternative Form
L-System Studies
The underlying structure is generated using a modified L-system algorithm. In order to explore the structural analysis of the installation, finite element analysis was employed. Hence, a wide array of studies was conducted to find the best performing underlying structure. The agent simulation run on the L-system is based on the principles of stigmergy. To elaborate, the agents follow the aforementioned paths secreting pheromone along the way. When the target is discovered by an agent, the pheromone trail is updated to signal other agents to render the selection of the path more probable. Targets can be placed for aesthetic reasons or to prioritize performance criteria, such as shading and thermal comfort.
FE Analysis | Deflection
FE Analysis | Principal Stresses
FE Analysis | Principal Stresses
FE Analysis | Principal Stresses
Robot Toolpath for Clay Printing
Two versions of the installation were developed and compared according to their structural and environmental performance. The one performing better to the above criteria was selected for further fabrication studies. Physical models were produced to test and explore the parameters of the marching cubes algorithm. In particular, physical experiments allowed for recognition of problematic areas and refinement of the parameters. Moreover, further fabrication explorations were made as a proof-of-concept experiment. Specifically, toolpaths for 3D printing using clay were developed, alongside with segregation and compartmentalization plans.
POTENTMORPH
POTENTMORPH | 2020 academic work Potentmorph was developed as part of the advanced material systems agenda of the Emergent Technologies and Design post-graduate course at the Architectural Association. Through a multitude of computational tools and experiments, a form-active structure was proposed, contained in a volume of 3m by 3m by 3m. The final construct constitutes an aggregation of discretely bending-active elements, constructed using robotic fabrication processes. Specifically, the technique of robotic winding was introduced, so as to render the structure form-active. Due to the complex nature of the structure, generative design techniques were employed. Particularly, a custom script was written to generate the initial forms of the aggregation.. An additional algorithm generates the necessary winding in an automated manner. Finally, the form is relaxed, using physics simulation during which phase, material specifications were introduced to test the efficacy of the system. Consequently, the algorithmic workflow followed allows for numerous digital experiments and applications in different scenarios. initial point distribution
generated form
Winding Generation
Form-Finding through Simulation
two-segment polyline creation
average point in sets of two points
third iteration of process
second iteration of process
Generative Algorithm Pseudocode
Multi-objective optimization with the use of Genetic Algorithms
During the project, genetic algorithms were employed as an optimization tool, in conjunction with finite element analysis, for optimization purposes. Specifically, they were utilized for fabrication standardization purposes, as well as for structural performance optimization. A unity application was built for visualization purposes of the fabrication process and the final structure. Additionally, the application allows the user to place the structure at the desired environment, thus exploring different design outcomes and scenarios.
Snippet of Unity Application
Elevation
The proposed fabrication process employs robotic fabrication techniques for automation purposes. To test the design assumption, a physical prototype was constructed, using the proposed fabrication method. A jig was created, according to the digital model. PVC pipes were used as the bending-active element, while jute thread was used for the cables.
Physical Prototype Model
KOURKOPOULOS ELEFTHERIOS