RATIONALE FOR SELECTION AND CHOICE OF MATERIALS The Hive in the Cliff is a rich natural environment which is currently under-utilised. This is partly due to the absence of adequate attractions that could potentially draw visitors closer to nature and provide opportunities to experience the wildlife. Improving the picturesque of the environment through functional and aesthetic designs is therefore a responsible decision as this will benefits the local residents and visitors alike. My initial material research focussed on New Materials during which I considered making my model from Alphamesh, Dichrolam or Carbon Fibre. After thorough considerations in my design process (sketches), I found the materials not as appealing as they initially were. I visualized my model to be appealing (like a sculpture) and functional (like a seat). So I opted for weathering Steel and Teak (hardwood) as I found them more suitable for my model. The Design Weathering steel is very strong steel mainly used for bridges, external fixtures in buildings, and sculptures. Teak on the other hand is hardwood mainly used for furniture, boatbuilding and indoor flooring. The combination of these two materials seems perfect for my model, hence, my choice. While designing my model, Richard Serra crossed my mind as I could see characteristics of his work in mine. The design (which I called ‘Steel bench’) contains two high arc-shaped weathering steel joined together at the back [like :)(] and supported at the base with concrete floor. The Teak bench (also arc-shaped) fits in place easily and rest on two rods a few distances apart that are connected to the steel. The design will utilise about 85-90% steel, 7.5-10% wood, and 2.5-5% concrete. (See model for the design). Design flexibility Teak is a low grain hardwood. It is possible to cut accurately and can be used for carving which is what I need for my seat. Weathering steel on the other hand allows designers to achieve their intended design because of its ability to be framed into the simplest, functional and complex structure.
Weathering / Corrosion resistance As the name suggests, weathering steels exhibit increased resistance to atmospheric corrosion compared to other steels and metals mainly due to formation of protective layer on its surface under the influence of the weather. This characteristic enables it to be used without paint for many applications (SteelConstruction.info). Teak on the other hand is high in natural oil and rubber content which helps protect the wood against effect of wet, cold and hot weather. These make it suitable for outdoor use.