DAISY AMES

For our Visualization III course this semester we learned a number of computer programs, fabrication techniques, assembly methods and addressed the dynamics of design collaboration. Spending the time learning these things was a real pain in the butt (at the time) relative to what seemed like more critical deadlines like Studio. But, having just finished our final installation I think it may have been my favorite class this semester. Learning notions of programs like Grasshopper exposed us to fast ways of creating and applying complex design intentions. After finalizing a design we had to fabricate it - forcing us to consider material, production method and the process… which involved milling, band-sawing, thermoforming, laser cutting, water jet and plasma cutting. A large component of these assignments had us working in groups, so we learned to articulate our ideas and work together. 

Above is the final product for our fabrication design - an elevator installation. Being on the design team, we wanted to work within a space that fostered awkward situations - the looming arrival of your floor, the obligation to make small talk, and the eavesdropping of others. While we toyed with the idea of forcing people to stand uncomfortably close to one another, we decided to investigate different ways people would interact with a designed surface. This “surface” provides a bench, foot rest, butt rest, and an peculiarly placed barrier which inhibits one’s ability to stand in the middle. It was fabricated out of 8’x4’ sheets of 3/4” MDF, which took a total of 14+ hours to mill 200+ pieces.