Versatile Spaces – Part 4 - construct.deconstruct.reconstruct - Design Studio SS 2021

HB2 & ITI VERSATILE SPACES

Reviews by Miriam Dall’lgna & Marina Konstantatou, Foster & Partners

Department of Building Construction and Design

Institute of Architecture and Design &

Department of Structural Design and Timber Engineering

#insideoutside #inbetween #interactivestructure

project, images and text by

Alomia Paola, Chelariu Florin, Fridrich Stefanie

ABSTRACT

The project gravitates around the ambivalence of “being in between”, enriching the surrounding space, generating a place of gathering around and fueling the space in between. The idea of the heterotopia, further enhanced the need for versatility and inclusiveness. The strong division of mechanical and human mellows down once both engage and interact within mulitiple spatial configurations adaptable for a vast array of possible activities. The space in between being palpable, imposing or ephemeral.

DESIGN APPROACH

In order to be a generator of various spaces, while tackling the concept of „in between“, the project started as a simple roof type structure. Through the two defined lateral sides various openings can be achieved, creating spaces adaptable for different activities. This main concept triggered both the structural and architectural approach. An aspect present since the beginning depicted by the three models showing the „blooming structure“ puts emphasis on the different atmospheres generated in regard to the diverse openings of the pavilion.

Besides the focus of INSIDE - OUTSIDE, the malleability of the space IN BETWEEN represented one of the most important goals of the project. From the closeness generated by a narrow opening to the spaces‘ amplitude sheltered under the fully opened structure MOWA‘s design approach aims to achieve a vast array of possibilities therefore offering to the mere structure an architectural and sensitive value.

Blooming pavilion

Blooming pavilion

Metalic rods and glass

Longitudinal rods Platform

GEOMETRIC DEVELOPMENT

Following the general shape generated by the roof type structure various experiments of opening possibilities took place. In all attempts the pavilions‘ layered structure was given close attention in order to establish the main principles that configured the final design of the project. Therefore, the analysis of the two structures, the upper part comprised out of the array of longitudinal rods and the bottom part portrayed by the platform played an important role when it came to the structural behaviour of the whole pavilion.

The longitudinal rods are the elements that make up the cover of the inner space. In their capacity of opening and closing up arose the need for movable joints, each requiring a particular behaviour in order to allow smooth transition.

Therefore, when it came to a pair of two longitudinal rods it was important to establish a fixed joint at the base and a movable one (enabling translation on a wheel) both allowing the rotation of the rod as the structure opens up. Nevertheless, the upper connection of the two longitudinal rods played a great role as it created the connection in between the two elements but also it had enble the rotation as the structure moves.

When it comes to the platform the development of the design followed the diverse possibilities to generate areas where people can gather and sit down. It also took into consideration the configuration needed to shelter all mechanical and technical features needed, especially the rail system for the translation of the upper structure.

The plan on the right shows the pavilion placed at Karlsplatz on the axis between the church and the metro pavilions, the lateral openings of the upper structure framing the two points of perspective. The shape of the platform in this case is related to the boundaries of the green areas permitting the circulation of the people around the pavilion‘s platform, not blocking the paths.

Selected area in Karlsplatz

STRUCTURE & ELEMENTS

The upper system of longitudinal rods is related to the bottom platform by defining the interval of movement. The platform is divided into several segments. The material used is plywood.

8 meters in height and 5 cm thick, the design of the longitudinal rods required a set of principles. For the lateral silhouette of the rods a larger width of the elements was needed in order to prevent bending due to gravitational efforts. Therefore, the rods start at the base with a width of 50 cm and taper towards the upper part to 25 cm, partly connected to the system of the metal gears which enable a synchronized rotation of the two rods. Due to the reduced width on the other side only 5 cm transversal metal rods were placed in between the wooden elements to maintain the parallelism of the elements and prevent the lateral curvature at the height of 8 meters.

The metal transversal rods of 1 meter do not only play an important role in the rods‘ geometry but they enable the mounting of the glass elements which comprise solar cells on one side and also generate a certain amount of shade and protection against wind under the sheltered area.

Upper gears‘ arcticulation

Detailed elevation depicting the cycling benches and the upper structure of the pavilion

DETAILING OF ELEMENTS

Due to the different configurations of all the elements –in regard to their different function when it comes to the general movement of the pavilion, a series of details were elaborated in order to describe the mechanism comprised in the pavilion.

A. UPPER JOINT - system of gears

B. PLATFORM‘S FEATURES - integrated in the bottom part

C. WHEELS‘ SYSTEM

LEGEND:

1.wooden rod 5cm

2.metalic gears 3cmsyncronization of the longitudinal rods‘ movement

3.metalic articulation

4.bolt - connection in between wooden and metalic elements

5.upper wooden boxprotection for gears system

6.metalic cover - protecti on against water

7.metalic joint

8.metalic rod - mentaining the paralelism of the longitudinal rods - connected to the lateral supports (6) and enabling the mounting of the glass panels

9.glass panel

10.botom metalic articulations

11.U shaped wooden element - generating a middle channels within the rod - enabling the connection in between the solar cells‘ wires and the bottom battery

12.bolt - connection of the two wooden elements

13.solar cell

14.wooden logitudinal frame 5cm

15.rubber distancer 3cm

16.metalic articulationof the longitudinal rod to the chain system

16a.fixed connection - en ables the movement of the rods controlled by the chain

16b.movable connectionpermits the movement of the chain in opposite direction

17.rails

18.box comprising phone charging features

19.battery

20.set of speakers

21.system of metalic wheels

21a.cycling wheels - enables the intreaction of the public in opening the upper structure

22b.articulation wheeltransfers the movement ge nerated by 21a to the system of wheels directly controlling the opening of the pavilion

22c.wheels for translation

22d.rod‘s wheel

Upper joint - longitudinal section

Upper joint - transversal section

Platform logitudinal section

Platform transversal section - wheels‘ system

TRANSFORMATION

When it comes to the relationship between the movement of the rods configuring the space and the platform, three main scenarios have been taken into consideration.

Scenario 1: Upper structure closed

Clearing up the entire platform, the pavilion turns into a central element that people can gather around. This scenario is considered to be suitable for events: outdoor parties, festivals or outdoor presentations, as the structure can be lit up at the base and turns into a source of light.

Scenario 2: Upper structure opened half way

The duality INSIDE-OUTSIDE is taken into consideration as the opening of the pavilion creates two paths – one protected by the upper structure and one in strong relation to the surroundings as it is uncovered. The second scenario connects the pavilion to the TU building as it can turn into an outdoor class room. The open design encourages people from the outside to participate and be in contact with the activities of the university.

Scenario 3: Upper structure opened to the maximum

In this configuration the largest sheltered space is made available. Possible uses include big events as symposiums, exhibitions and workshops.

Scenario 4: The public claims the pavilion

This scenario represents the most common daily use of the pavilion where the public has the possibility of changing the space generated by small segments according to their needs .

Scenario 1

Scenario 3

Scenario 2

Scenario 4

VERSATILITY

The movement of the upper structure enables the adaptability of the inner space to diverse programmes. The configuration of the platform plays a great role in regard to versatility. Following the configuration of the pavilion and foremost the platform into segments, the final object can vary in shape as intervals can be interchanged, obtaining multiple variations. The platform comprises three main components: the ramps of access positioned on two sides of the platform, intervals related to the rods enabling defined openings (in relation to the possibilities of the three scenarios and intervals) which enable the interaction of the public. In the case of the last ones listed, the segments comprise a cycling bench at one end linking the mechanism controlled by the people to the platforms‘ system of wheels generating the movement of one interval created out of three longitudinal rods.

In regard to the idea of SCALING, the platform intervals are able to be mounted in a different order on one side, and on the other, can be reduced in number. Therefore, a different mounting will permit a better adaptation of the pavilion to different areas where, for example, the scale may need to be reduced.

human silhouettes - open source: https://www.pngwing.com

WORK PROCESS

A considerable amount of the work process was defined by multiple geometrical experimentations in regard not only to the final arched design of the upper longitudinal rods and the system of meta rods holding the glass panels, but also the configuration and the wavy shape of the platform. Therefore during the development of the project an important step was depicted by the process of detailing which enabled a great insight towards the structural and mechanical requirements in relation to the architectural aims.

Volumetric development - PHASE IV - integration of metalic rods in between the longitudinal one - support for the glass panels

Elevation development - PHASE II - first integration of colored glass panels combined with opaque ones (plywood)

REFLECTION

When it comes to our group, a defining moment was depicted throughout the first task required by the studio, in which we experimented with creating a structure out of sticks without using glue. By coincidence or not, the three structures created followed similar principles and furthermore generated the main concept of our project tackled the idea of „being in between“.

What started at the beginning as an experiment regarding a more conceptual approach, reached its main objectives, that enabled the realization of the project, through long group debates encouraged and fueled through a close implication and complex feedback discussed during the studio meetings. Furthermore, the analysis of already built projects as case studies gave us a great insight when it came to the possible structural behaviour and scale that our structure was able to achieve.

The two workshops and the additional lectures with guests had a great impact on the development of the project as they opened the way to detailed and inspiring ideas on one side practical, in regard to the use of Grasshopper, and on the other theoretical, regarding the intricacy of Japanese wood building and the importance of configuring public space.

Nevertheless, the studio was a great opportunity in understanding the capacity that structural elements have in obtaining an architectural value and therefore generating certain atmospheres. What at first sight might seem to be a rigid element able to generate order turns out to be the central point of complex debates regarding the quality of space, the sensitivity of intervention where the mere structure is enriched through its attached symbolical value, as in our project, a place of social encounter.

Due to the given circumstances, we were confronted with a different way of working and, above all, cooperating. In our case, three people came together who generally pursued one vision, but each did so in his or her own way, often

resulting in heated, stimulating discussions. But even after hours of meetings, the pleasant togetherness meant that fun was not neglected. It was very nice to see and feel that our vision of our project was understood by the mentors, critically questioned and supported with many inspiring comments. This made it possible to enjoy the time with enthusiasm and fun even during the corrections.

SOURCES

Snøhetta - Zero

https://www.designboom.com/architecture/snohetta-ero/

Rafael Moneo - Kursaal Auditorium

https://www.detail.de/artikel/leuchtzeichen-fuer-diekultur-kursaal-in-san-sebastian-von-rafael-moneo-2000/

Daniel Buren - Centre Pompidou Malaga

https://centrepompidou-malaga.eu/exposicion/danielburen/

Chiangmai Life Construction - Bamboo sports hall

https://www.baunetz.de/meldungen/MeldungenSporthalle_von_Chiangmai_Life_Construction_in_Thailand _5128768.html

Frei Otto - Multihalle in Mannheim

https://www.bauwelt.de/themen/bauten/Frei-OttoMultihalle-Mannheim-2845677.html

University of Auckland‘s School of Architecture and Planning /Leo Zhu, Dorien Viliamu, Daniel Fennell, Wenhan Ji - THE WOOD PAVILION

https://www.brickbaysculpture.co.nz/folly-2019-thewood-pavilion

Foster + Partners - Vatican Chapel

https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/vaticanchapel-pavilion-of-the-holy-see/

EmTech at the Timber Expo in Birmingham - The TWIST

https://www.archdaily.com/775842/emtechs-twistdisplayed-at-the-timber-expo-in-birmingham

DRS + FARMM - The ContemPLAY Pavilion

https://www.archdaily.com/258929/the-contemplaypavilion-drs-farmm

REVIEWS

Marina Konstantatou

This project aimed for a three-fold architectural function by developing a reconfigurable component-based structure made out of plywood. Specifically, the three objectives of the resulting space were to enhance its surroundings, provide a focal gathering point, and accentuate the space between destinations. These different briefs can be achieved by adapting the roof in terms of kinetically reconfiguring its components in regard to openness. Interestingly, even though the structure is linear, the ability of its two longitudinal road to open can result in interesting and curved spaces. The main concept of the structure is simple and elegant. It is inspired by Japanese timber construction and is based on a two-layer roof comprising a linear sequence of longitudinal rods with movable joints standing on top of a platform which functioned both as a seating area and a part of the kinetic mechanism. In particular, each pair of rods had one fixed joint as well as one with a wheel – something that enabled the rods to rotate and open and thus the structure to reconfigure allowing for the various architectural briefs. The geometry of the rods was informed from the structural behaviour. Specifically, the silhouette of the rods was designed by considering their structural performance in terms of bending. Also, the detailing of the components and their mechanisms was thoroughly and clearly documented.

In the case where the rods were closed, the structure could be lit up and function as a lighting installation or sculpture, which would invite the users to gather around it. In the case where the rods were half opened, then the structure would form a corridor which creates paths for the users to transverse. When the rods were fully opened the resulting space can be suitable for gatherings such as meeting and symposia, whereas a variety of rotation angles chosen interactively from the users on a daily basis allows for a mixed level of openness which could in turn facilitate various other functions.

Future steps could include further development and documentation of the computational process for parametrically designing and analysing the various configurations, as well as a colour study with regards to the glass panels. The latter could enhance the stunning lighting effect of the structure and even be an element of reconfigurability and perforation control of the pavilion from the users depending on the environmental conditions and functions.

A geometrically elegant and nicely executed project which combines simplicity with versatility.

Miriam Dall’Igna

1. It is good that the system allows multiple opening degrees as well as full demountability.

2. The system could be more flexible when it comes to different configurations, i.e. the system only allows a shelter pavilion. It can only be changed in terms of number of modules used.

3. If the pavilion was to be deconstructed and reconstructed, what other functions could be assumed? Could the pavilion be reassembled of, for instance, an openable bench or part of urban furniture? This is an instance of reusability questions that can be asked.

4. The project would benefit from structural analysis of the different configurations

5. The presentation is well structured, however, it would be enriched by precedents documented and also references page.

A‘MÖBIUS

#floatingquayextension #kineticstructure

project, images and text

by Daniel Kientsch

Timo Bogataj Cleo Traub

ABSTRACT

A‘Möbius‘ intention is to create a pleasant experience along the Danube Canal and expand the famous public quay onto the water surface. Calls for a more vivid transformation of the Danube Canal can be found in the city‘s 2010 and 2014 masterplan and recent initiatives like the „Schwimmverein Donaukanal“, a project by students from the University of Applied Art in Vienna, that encourages using the Canal for swimming.

Our structure offers a protected space for swimming, sunbathing, relaxing, and climbing. In its Möbius configuration it integrates a projection surface for media and light shows, which can also be observed from the quay wall.

Through its pneumatic hinges, the structure unfolds and can offer a more disclosed spatial experience. A‘Möbius can be moved around the Danube Canal and can be attached to different stairs of Otto Wagner‘s historic quay wall, left mostly untouched by the structure.

DESIGN APPROACH

“Suggestions for change were [...] architectural changes, which intensify the experience of the water and lifelines through more special activities.”

Urban development and urban planning (2010)

The Möbius strip is the simplest geometric shape which has only one surface and only one edge. It can be created by taking a strip of paper, giving it a half twist along its long axis, and then joining the two narrow ends together.

The Möbius strip is the simplest geometric shape which has only one surface and only one edge. It can be created by taking a strip of paper, giving it a half twist along its long axis, and then joining the two narrow ends together.

The Möbius Strip in three dimensions can be represented parametrically f(s,t) as follows:

The Möbius strip is the simplest geometric shape which has only one surface and only one edge. It can be created by taking a strip of paper, giving it a half twist along its long axis, and then joining the two narrow ends together

The Möbius Strip in 3 dimensions can be represented parametrically f(s,t) as follows:

cos(

=

��������

��������) + �������� × cos(�������� ÷2) × cos(��������) sin(

cos(

��������) �������� × cos(�������� ÷2) × sin(��������)

�������� × sin(�������� ÷2) �

The Möbius Strip in 3 dimensions can be represented parametrically f(s,t) as follows:

��������) +

�������� × cos(

�������� ÷2) × cos(��������)

1 2 3

sin(

��������)

�������� × cos(�������� ÷2) × sin(��������)

where s ranges from 0 to 2�������� and t ranges typically from -0.4 to 0.4

where s ranges from 0 to 2π and t ranges typically from -0.4 to 0.4.

where s ranges from 0 to 2

�������� × sin(�������� ÷2)

�������� and

t ranges typically from -0.4 to 0.4

mathematical inspiration of the möbius strip‘s infinity surface

possible locations with access stairs to the canal‘s water surface

1. stairs at Flex / Swimming Park

2. stairs at Freda-Meissner-Blau Promenade

3. stairs at Franzensbrücke

GEOMETRIC DEVELOPMENT

To check the buoyancy behaviour, we analysed the floating behaviour of the individual triangular elements, as well as the total buoyancy behaviour of the whole structure. The thin, textile-concrete shell in combination with the formwork and seating cushion inside the shell enables the element to float, because it includes a large volume in comparison to its weight. From the total weight of the

element (calculation below) we calculated buoyancy data, like the displaced volume and the buoyancy force. With this data and the element surface area, a calculation of how deep the elements sink into the water is possible. This individual analysis must be supplemented by an analysis of the complete, connected structure. We did this with the software RhinoHyd, using center of gravity and volume.

concrete shell data

shell volume: 0.40m3

shell weight (2300kg/m3): 920.00kg

element data

additional gear weight: 50.00kg

(cushions, textiles, rubber hinge)

total element volume: 2.75m3

total element weight: 970.00kg

buoyancy data

buoyancy force: 9515.70N

displayced volume: 0.97m3

element surface area: 5.21m2

height in water: 0.19m

element principle 1:150

For the complete buoyancy analysis, we added the weight of 20 people on the wall or the floor side. This shifts the centre of gravity towards the wall or the floor side. The shift causes a different tilt of the structure. In the images below this shift is displayed in the green colorized areas in comparison to the white, non-loaded structure. The exact movement is noted in the captions.

1. load case: möbius 45t; dynamic load 2t(~20 people) on wall side > wall -15cm; floor +3cm

2. load case: möbius 45t; dynamic load 2t(~20 people) on floor side > wall +12cm; floor -7cm

movement under load without load

STRUCTURE & ELEMENTS

In the assembling process overview, the different parts of the system are visible: the PVC cushion for the inner formwork and seating, the concrete shells around them and the boltrope connection system between the elements for the textiles, holding the elements together and covering

the pneumatic cushions for the transformation process, “transformation”. The special UHPC concrete mixture for the thin textileconcrete shells, was developed in cooperation with TU Wien‘s Institute for Construction Material Technology.

element principle

construction principle of the structure

UHPC concrete

sand

350l

1-3mm

cement

700kg

CEM1 C3A3

HOLCIM white cement

quartz flour / lime powder

350kg

silicafume

140kg

high performance super plasticizer

35kg

ACE 430

w/c ratio

0,25-0,35

concrete deaerator, hydrolysable expanding adjunct, consistency regulator, reducer

concrete mixture

physical model 1:5

The biggest challenge for the element production is the need for 48 differently sized triangular concrete shells. This results from the specific möbius geometry, which cannot be simplified to a few equal triangles without compromising the steady curvature. To build the different triangles we developed a flexible formwork. This formwork consists of a base- and cover plate, where clay can be added to

fillet the edges and for the surface textures used to climb and for grip. The PVC cushion, as an inner formwork, and the carbon fiber reinforcement are then placed inside the length adjustable board formwork, that works through flexible metal sheet edge brackets. This system allows the production of every element from smallest to biggest.

cover plate

steel

inner formwork

multiple chamber PVC cushion

reinforcement

carbonfiber

outer formwork

wooden board + flexible edgebracket

baseplate

steel

formwork

plate with clay texture + fillet inlay

plate with clay texture + fillet inlay

biggest piece

the PVC cushion may be used as formwork, but will later be part of the final configuration

1683kg

smallest piece along the loose edgebracket the formwork can be adjusted to suit different size elements

516kg adjustability of the formwork

DETAILING OF ELEMENTS

boltrope-profile

3mm steel profile with reinforcement connection

concrete shell

40mm carbonfiber reinforced UHPC concrete

tensile textile polyester-based lashing-strap fabric

pneumatic cushion

stiff hinge steel reinforced rubber mat pneumatic

The detailed section illustrates how the pneumatic cushion/hinge system works. In the möbius configuration the cushions between the elements are inflated. Through the cushions, an angle between the elements is adjusted, which forms the möbius geometry. All pneumatic cushions are connected. The shorter stiff hinge in combination with the pneumatic cushion holds the distance between the elements, while the tensile textile keeps them from falling over. The textiles are connected to the elements with boltrope profiles that are attached to the carbon fiber reinforcement of the shells. For the flat trail configuration, the hinges can be locked in position for security reasons.

The connection to the quay wall is also built with a boltrope profile attached to the wall. The steel reinforced rubber hinges carry the tension load, while the buoys act as pressure resistant distance holders. The goal of the connection was to reduce the impact on the protected quay wall. If necessary, due to the wind loads, a steel rope could also be attached to the wall side of the möbius stripe to fixate its position.

stiff hinge steel reinforced rubber mat

buoy pressure-resistant distance holder

boltrope-profile

3mm steel profile with screw connection

TRANSFORMATION

The structure can shape-shift between two states with different uses. The first state is the möbius form and the second one is the trail form. The pneumatic cushions and the hinge system can lift the elements of the 45 t structure to achieve different angles and finally create the möbius from the trail stage.

The pneumatic cushions need to be filled with 3400 litres of air to reach a pressure of 10 bar. Therefore, each bag has the capability to lift 6,8 t. To achieve the filling quantity with a 200 liter compressor tank, which can be transported easily, the transformation

process from trail to möbius takes around 45 minutes. The transformation from the möbius configuration back to the trail only takes around 10 minutes for a safe deflation process, where the air pressure is released slowly through controlled valves.

transformation process top view

transport in the water to different locations around the canal

first assembly in the water before launch

VERSATILITY & PROGRAMMING

The goal of the versatility and programming is to bring more life on, in and next to the water. The water is no longer just passing by, but can be experienced, touched and felt with the A‘Möbius. The structure creates new places of leisure, where it anchors around the historic Vienna Danube Canal.

During a hot summer night people can watch movies or light shows while sitting on the A‘Möbius or the quay wall, or even inside the water. The soft lighting through the cushions creates a relaxed atmosphere on the structure and in the water and encourages visitors to linger.

Möbius

sunbathing

public viewing

climbing

swimming

On the visualization the möbius configuration is displayed

The Trail

relaxing

get together

yoga classes

swimming

WORK PROCESS

For the research of the möbius geometry, we looked at paper strips, which can be twisted to achieve these geometries, although there are limits to the use of paper models. If you divide the möbius strip into different parts or elements, you can achieve geometries not possible with a single band of paper.

One ongoing discussion we had along the design process was if we want to build the möbius from sticks or plates/ elements. In general, both ways are possible, but for transformation and buoyancy reasons we decided to use elements for our floating structure.

1. researching möbius geometry and construction approaches

To find the optimal geometry for the möbius configuration, as well as the trail configuration we developed a script, which stretches the parametric mathematical möbius definition. The goal was to have a reasonable balanced amount of flat area on the möbius strip for easy access, as well as a well-formed structural appearance. The stretch also influences the unrolled geometry, the trail. Here we also tried to achieve the most interestingly curved path on the water surface. The model on the left shows this geometry.

2. final geometry and element system

3. mock-up prototype production and research

REFLECTION

Everyone in the group was excited to start the new semester, because we all wanted to learn about parametric design and collect our first experiences with Grasshopper. The little knowledge we initially had made it difficult in the beginning, but after the workshops, countless tutorials and browsing through forums, we made progress and, most importantly, realized which opportunities lay in parametric design.

The engineering and structural analysis, which was the focus of this design studio, was very challenging. Our project in the water confronted us with a lot of structural difficulties and the pneumatic transformation somehow seemed more like mechanical engineering, than what we experienced in architecture before. But this was the challenge, why we chose the design studio, and we did our best to solve these new problems and learned a lot on the way.

grasshopper script for A‘Möbius

The building of the diverse physical models and especially the model using the self-built formwork was a great experience which led us to talk to concrete specialists and specialists of experimental building construction. This experience emphasised the importance of the feasibility of each detail.

The online group work via Zoom was challenging sometimes, because, especially in this very holistic design studio, making design decisions together was hard to do with distance learning. In traditional design studios it might have been easier to divide the work into separate tasks for 3 people. Still, we managed to do this, but had to adjust our different ideas in meetings to combine them into one, meaningful project.

It was very rewarding to dig into all these new fields and try learning-by-doing. When we had solved a hard problem, it was even more fun to continue. We hope to apply this knowledge about kinetic architecture in further projects as well.

zoom sessions

shopping model building material

REVIEWS

Marina Konstantatou

This project aimed to develop a structure which could serve as a medium to experience the water flow of Vienna’s Danube via extending the public quay on the river’s surface. This was achieved by designing a structural geometry, and subsequently a space, which enables multiple public functions and is inspired by the mathematical concept and geometrical properties of the Moebius strip.

The versatility of this project is achieved in two ways. Firstly, through the reconfiguration of the structure between two states: the ‘unfolded’ and the ‘A’Moebius’. The latter is envisioned to serve a multitude of public functions such as swimming, sunbathing, relaxing, and climbing.

Secondly, adaptability in relation to the space’s functions can be further enhanced in the A’Moebius configuration by incorporating lighting and media elements. These allow both for the structure to host shows for those experiencing it and for accentuating it as a reference point of architectural interest on the river’s surface when viewed from the quay. Furthermore, the placement of the structure on the water surface, in conjunction with the design of a noninvasive attachment system on the quay’s walls, allows for A’Moebius to travel and reconfigure on various locations throughout Vienna.

The team had as a starting point the mathematical concept and geometrical properties of the Moebius strip which was then developed holistically into a reconfigurable structure. This was studied and developed in terms of: component geometry and materials, assembly sequence, detailing of the reconfiguration mechanism, computational analysis of buoyancy, and statics. Specifically:

• Geometrically, the structure comprises 48 unique triangular concrete components which were manufactured via a flexible formwork. To this end, the team developed a parametric computational design process in Grasshopper,

which transforms and discretises the geometry of a Moebius strip. This is achieved by incorporating as objectives the resulting flat usable area in relation to the structural geometry and unrolled configuration.

• In terms of materials, the system includes the development of a tailor-made concrete mixture in the context of thin textile concrete-shells.

• Assembly-wise, the system comprised three distinct elements, the design language of which was visually discrete. These were an inner PVC formwork - functioning as a cushion for seating - the enclosing thin concrete shell, and the connection system between adjacent triangular components.

• Mechanically, the reconfiguration between folded and unfolded states - and their subsequent functions - is achieved via the development of a system of pneumatic hinges and interconnected pneumatic cushions. Moreover, the required pressure and necessary litres of air were calculated.

• In terms of Analysis, the team performed computational buoyancy calculations both in terms of individual components and the structure as a whole. Form these, the structural performance and requirements of the structure and its hinges were derived for a give load of a number of occupants.

Features and novelties of the project include the material development for which the team worked collaboratively with TU Vienna’s Institute for construction material technology.

Further steps could include: the optimisation of the components’ geometry so that they are not all unique; and the consideration of composite materials in terms

of enhancing their recyclability performance. These steps could contribute even more to the afterlife and reconfigurability performance of the project.

Overall a very good project which was thoughtfully and holistically developed.

Miriam Dall’Igna

1. Great use of adaptable formwork, we can see extensive experimentation and structural/mechanical consideration

2. Excellent analysis and research on assembly with buoyancy elements that bring flexibility

3. Clarify why a Mobius strip can not be made of same sized modules. Couldn‘t the deviations be accommodated on the inflatable joints?

3. Interesting versatility adding two different states.

4. The project would benefit from structural analysis of the different configurations

5. The presentation is well structured, however, it would be enriched by precedents documented and also