Siyathemba
early weaving studies of canopy exploring patterning of pliant frame members and rope
These two surfaces, the undulating rope canopy and the undulating ground surface, in their engagement form residual spaces for climbing, hiding, resting, waiting and watching while defining a place of information exchange and support regarding health issues facing the community.
site plan showing relationship of the project to the soccer pitch and community functions. The passive and leisure parts of the program are accomodated in the canopy while spaces requiring more security and privacy are constructed out of stabilized earth.
The technology of the local Zulu indlu dwelling, which is considered one of the finest examples of African vernacular architecture is adopted and reinterpreted to equip the landscape with a concentration of community activity surrounding play. The Zulu technology consists of three parts; pliant arches, grass rope, and stabilized earth floor. We propose a series of tensioned steel arches of varying shapes formed in place by bending and lashing them with rope. These arches are used to weave the grass rope that forms a canopy/ play/rest surface. This surface is woven in varying degrees of density to provide shade or simply create patterns on the ground below to loosely define programs areas while also to act as swing, hammock, or climbing structure. The soil from the grading of the soccer field is used to form the berms, which deforms, amplifies and diminishes, the patterns formed from the shadow of the woven rope above while defining fluid areas of activity.
play
These two surfaces, the undulating rope canopy and the undulating ground surface, in their engagement form residual spaces for climbing, hiding, resting, waiting and watching while defining a place of information exchange and support regarding health issues facing the community. In their interaction they define programmatic zones, such as dressing room, gathering area, seating for players… bench, mobile facility docking zone, while also serving as active play surfaces for the children of the community bringing the joy of discovery through the active engagement of play. Materials Used Poured in place point footings ½”x 4” plate steel for pliant arches 3/4 “ O.D. grass rope from the region “landcrete” on-soil stabilized with concrete for ground plane under canopy
meet
Budget-$5000
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study model showing pliant frames
Developed study of rope patterning with varying gradients of weave.
Study model in process - showing the relationship between the 3d printed ground surface and the laser cut and patterned pliant frames
Views of study models - The two surfaces (rope & ground) move interdependently creating a shaded space in between for relaxation and enjoyment of soccer games. The roof dips at points in order to become a play structure for local kids while high points in the earth are holowed out for enclosed programs.
topo study - the ground will be made tectonic based on computer modes that are then translated into surfaces using gps surveying equipment. The ground will then be “stabilized� using a mixture of cement and earth from the site.
view of model from above