Spacial Experiences
Exploring modular systems to create three-dimensional forms
Objective: Understanding and creating relationships between three-dimensional forms; Considering forms and structures in respect to designing spatial experiences for specific user experiences
Materials: Chipboard, Xacto Knife
02.03.2021 — Day 1: 3 Modules, 7 Figures
Task: Experiment with the forms created by 3 different modules each approximately 1" x 1", creating at least 6 distinct figures and compositions.
Module #1
Process
Drawing from the interlocking idea of honeycombs in nature, I decided to explore hexagonal modules by starting with a paper cut out of a hexagon to trace onto chipboard. Since my hexagon was not equilateral, I cut 4 slits in each module, 2 along the longer sides of each hexagon for consistency. I experimented with cutting three slits (alternating sides) but since the sides weren’t the same length, the module looked lopsided.
Figure 1
Initially, taking advantage of all of the slits in each module, I clumped the pieces close together, forming an abstract figure of some sort. The placement of the modules was arbitrary, and I noticed the harsh shadows some of the sharp edges cast onto the paper.
Figure 2
Digressing from a big clump, I spread out the modules more linearly, with each module connected to at least 2 or 3 others, using up the majority of the slits. The organization of this figure was more structured however still dense.
Figure 3
Unlike the previous formations, in this figure, I followed a pattern, with each module locking onto only a single other, creating a fluid chain that could be twisted in different manners. I’m not sure which arrangement I prefer.
Module #2
Process
Unsure about the design of the remaining modules, I decided to sketch and experiment with 4 different styles. I didn’t appreciate the inconsistency of the semi-circles or the lopsided nature of the octagonal module. I was interested in exploring the effects of cut-outs in the figure as well as wished to maintain more of a square shape.
Drawing out a grid to facilitate the cutting process, I cut out the different modules of this figure, targeting rigidity with the repetitive right angles.
Figure 4
This form ended up a lot more cubical, rigid, and less flexible due to the sharp right angles and solely perpendicular cuts. Without any slanted slits, the figure remains consistent and organized.
Figure 5
I don’t really like how structured and inorganic the form is. The modules can only be interlocked perpendicularly which limits the variety of the figures.
Module # 3
Process
I hoped to explore the effects of scoring the chipboard and how simple folds in the modules would contribute towards shaping the whole figure. Working with a basic triangle shape, I split it into 4 smaller triangles, scoring along those lines with slits on the vertices. I also experimented with diamonds and trapezoids but found that the 4 flaps of the triangle created an intriguing curved surface.
Figure 6
As I started to piece together the figure, the triangular shape lent itself towards forming a larger triangle. I was surprised to find that the modules attached to each other on the top, creating a sturdy bowl shape. I purposefully did not place another module on top of the second triangle to see it open. The module didn’t turn out how I expected it would be.
Figure 7
Instead of forming another shape with the modules, I decided to create a figure that was more free-flowing, following the curves of the scored triangle pieces. Using less of the slits, this created a more snake-like curved structure that curved upon itself. I wish I could have used up more of the slits though.
Reflection
I would like to further explore scoring modules and how that affects their geometry. I find myself attracted to geometric forms. It was definitely difficult for me to visualize a structure prior to assembling it in 3d which I hope will improve throughout this project. Continuing to improve my craft, I enjoyed creating these modules — but after the initial stages of designing an idea, the task felt somewhat repetitive and simple. At first, I struggled to cut the slits into the chipboard precisely, especially because the material was too thick to fit together with a simple cut and too thin to necessitate a wide slit.
02.06.2021 — Day 2: 3 modules, 2 Figures
Reflection
- Scoring the chipboard definitely makes it more dynamic also providing more opportunities for creating fluid structures
- Connecting the modules to more than 1 other module would be beneficial in creating forms with a variety
- The placement of slits is very critical — the form can appear completely different if you place the slits at the joints vs. the vertices
- Consider the length of the slits when making two slits that interlock with each other
- Consider the effects of shapes, bends, and cutouts on air, space, and light
In Class Feedback/Critique:
Q mentioned his favor for the third module due to the dynamic nature of the triangle split into triangles and the use of scoring. He advised exploring a vertical cut through the center of the triangles to help make the shapes more dynamic which I hope to try next.
Examples from the internet:
A bit overwhelmed with all of the possibilities, I wanted to research what is already out there in terms of modular designs made from cardboard.
Sketches for the next iterations of modules:
I strived to further explore the effects of scoring on the chipboard in creating unique forms and geometry that interlocks with itself. I was interested in creating round figures with straight angles. Nevertheless, I was hoping to expand on my previous module #3 — the triangle made of smaller triangles. I began to draw iterations of this model which evolved to a hexagon, composed of 6 triangles. I tried a few modules with a hexagon scored in 6 sections, however, the piece seemed too flat and difficult to piece with other hexagons in a non-perpendicular manner. I then had the idea to create a honeycomb-like design where instead of triangles composing the hexagon, the hexagons could be attached and scored while they interlock with other hexagons to form a larger structure.
Process
Ideas for verbs:
- Climb
- Jump — too specific? not enough evidence for this
- Explore** too broad?
- Twist
- Investigate — too formal?
- Observe — doesn’t account for interactions with the form
- Interact*** Interactions between people and other people as well as people with the form and nature around it — perhaps also too general
Working goal: Create a friendly and open atmosphere and structure that people of all ages are able to interact with, whether that be resting in the shade on their back looking up at the stars or children climbing through intricate sections to fulfill their sense of curiosity — a place with lots to explore, facilitating different interactions.
Criteria:
- Understand the effects of scoring in making the form more dynamic, especially within each hexagon
- Connect each module to more than one other module (make it more integrated)
- Keep the modules consistent — the change between the different shapes shouldn’t be too drastic
- Keep the slits on the modules more consistent, working to improve my craft.
- Understand the role of cutouts in the cardboard — see how light shines through it.
Designing Module #1
Ideas for different modules
Along the lines of an image Q showed us in class (similar to Tetris pieces) where each module was composed of a different number of squares, I wanted to maintain a sense of consistency throughout the modules I made, so each of them consisted of different composition and number of smaller hexagons. To get the hexagons accurate, I drew the 6 triangles within each of them side by side to make cutting easier.
I was hoping the cutouts would facilitate light entering the figure and create more platforms for children to interact and play with the form.
Arrangements for Module #1
I began exploring different ways to interlock the larger hexagonal modules without them appearing too perpendicular. I scored each of the hexagons in their separations, but unfortunately, I found that they didn't fold as much as I wanted since the chipboard was tough and the form was large and flat.
Circular Form
After creasing and scoring the joints of the hexagonal module more, I was able to make them somewhat more dynamic and interlock spherically which I believe opens a lot of new interactions for people.
Searching for Module #2
I tried a variety of different modules for the second piece including the 2 hexagonal pieces to see how they would interlock with the 3 hexagonal module pieces for the circular base. At first, I attempted to connect the pieces on top of the circular form, however, it got very messy and cluttered very quickly.
Designing Module #2
I soon realized that the second modules could also interlock in a similar repetitive way which I thought was intriguing — appeared like a bridge. But how would I connect this module with the first one?? Making them separately — appear like distinct figures didn’t feel like a good idea.
Attaching Module #2
I experimented with a way to relate these modules as conjoined circles. I wasn’t completely satisfied and wanted more interaction between the pieces. But then again, maybe there was merit to having different sections — each could serve a different purpose in the context of the form?
Designing Module #3
Drawing from the exact same shape as module 2, I realized how different the form could be if I simply created slits in different locations! Then the overlap of the hexagons wouldn’t be hidden with less tension forcing the pieces outwards, also visible to the viewers. This is a picture of the 3 different components of the design I had so far.
Final Figure 1
7 pieces— Module 1
6 pieces — Module 2
9 pieces — Module 3
22 Modules total
Assembling those 3 distinct components, I created these interlocked circular structures that allowed a lot of light and air into the structure — very open. I was not completely satisfied with how the modules weren’t well integrated with each other. The structure looked completely different than what I initially expected— I imaged a giant dome of some sort but maybe this was a more unique form.
Experimenting with people
Exploration of different people sizes — what size would a normal human want to be in this space?
The ideal human size so that the form isn't too overwhelming but also not insignificant — some sections are taller than the person while others are not.
Cutouts of the people in action
Final Figure 2
7 pieces — Module 1
16 pieces — Module 2
23 Modules Total
Process
Not completely satisfied with the outcomes of the last figure, I modified the slits on module 3, to make them identical to module 2 and cut out more in an effort to make the structure more cohesive and well integrated. The previous one felt too much like there were 3 distinct components to it.
I really appreciate how the hexagons began to come together in a spherical- semicircle manner as I began adding more. I refrained from making the whole circle and thought the form would be more engaging if left only half done. This would also allow light to enter more freely.
Final Figure
As I combined the different components, this is what the figure came to look like …
Experimenting with people
I experimented with photographing the model in different lighting to see how light would pass through the shapes and what the shadows would appear like.
Drawing the form with the verb
Exemplifying some of the actions that could occur with or within this form for the verb interact.
Reflection
I followed most of the criteria/goals I wrote in the beginning. I believe the form primarily achieves creating a multi-faceted space where a lot of air and light — although unpredictable — can enter, but it also maintains some peace and quiet (within the dome section) of the figure. I also like how it turned out to be abstract to an extent and not entirely symmetrical — but also remains reliable since all of the shapes are hexagons. I like the consistency of having each module being composed of the same basic shapes. I definitely understood the value of the precise placement of the slits, especially considering the changes I made from modules 2 to 3 were solely the locations of the slits.
I enjoy the versatility of this space and the different interactions it provides, but perhaps in future iterations, it would beneficial to make my verb more specific. In my next steps, I would also like to find improved manners to integrate my two modules together more effectively. Perhaps I could explore more into module 3 from the first day with triangles scored within the larger triangle, applying it to hexagons, further scoring each hexagon to make the structure more fluid.
02.10.2021: Day 3— Exploration of Colors & Lighting
Daphne Critique
How can I better integrate these two components of the structure while maintaining an open and a closed atmosphere for the visitors?
- Consider removing the modules that are in between the two circles — they create a barrier that instills uncertainty about if people should cross or not
Focus on a more specific verb?
- Yes to cater to the interactions between the people and the form more specifically— don’t try too much stuff
Does the semi-circle dome appear unfinished to some extent?
- No really — it doesn’t have to be connected
Peer Critique
- Liked that all the modules were made of hexagons
- Liked that the dome was not completed but thought it might be a little too much — empowers the right side of the structure — maybe take out some modules
- Liked the asymmetrical structure
- Some people liked that the two sections were distinct but some didn’t
My Responses
- Remove the 2 modules (module type 1- three hexagons) in order to facilitate easier interactions between the right and left sides as well as integrate the two sections of the structure more. In the future, think about creating a path of some sort with the larger modules?
- Focus on the verb Explore, the hexagons give off a sense of curiosity with lots of corners and areas to sit in and wander around — the mood of the structure right now is not targetted for relaxation (no fluid or flowing forms) with more perpendicular structures. The cutouts in the hexagons allow people to climb up the structure (footholds) but also serve to let lots of light into the structure — interesting shadows are formed.
- Explore the shadows that different angles and types of light create when hitting the form. Try various colors, patterns, and gradients to see what is suitable for the atmosphere of the structure — more open and exploratory.
Process
Removed two of the modules from the intersection of the spheres and added one to the left figure to make it larger so there is a more equal radius with the dome on the right side.
An exploration into Lighting (Warm, Cool, Natural, and Angles)
Natural Lighting
I like how there is a very faint shadow of the hexagons, and the warm tone of the chipboard looks very inviting.
Different Angles
The shadows drastically change depending on the angle, and I believe the light shining from the right is the best for this structure since it casts a shadow under the dome, providing shade for people under the right section of the form.
Types of Lighting
The changes in light instilled emotions — such as the harsh lighting appearing less approachable than the purple soft lighting. The light reflected off the structure (especially when it was colored solid white), such as the cool light making it hold a slight blue tinge.
The warm yellow light hitting the chipboard is very compatible with the brown color. The views with the warm light directly hitting the structure from above created a distinct gradient with the second module, where the bottom of the dome almost appears as if it’s in a darker shade of brown than the rest. This is what inspired me to create the same gradient in the colors I painted.
Exploration into Colors
Solid White
Process
At first, I just wanted to try a simple solid color so chose white to paint the whole structure. Since the modules are already complex, I didn’t want to create a pattern or design that would make it even more confusing. Also, I wanted to try multiple colors later so white would be an easy color to layer on top of.
Final Models (Changing Lighting)
The changes in light are a lot more obvious on the white paint than the chipboard, especially the warm vs cool light. The warm light almost has a cozy feeling to it.
Final Models (Changing Angles)
Gradient Grays
To try out a soft, not abrupt change to the coloring from white, I mixed 2 shades of gray to create a gradient alongside the dome, the values synonymous with how the chipboard became a darker brown nearer the ground. I really liked the formal, professional appearance these colors gave the structure as well as since the top sections are all white, the modules integrate well together.
Process
Final Models (Changing Lighting & Angles)
Room Lighting
Changing Angles
Changing Light Types
Although I liked the gradient in the grays, I thought that the gray color wasn’t the most suitable for my verb of explore. Explore is reminiscent of a more colorful active or vibrant color like blue or red, which is what I tried next.
Gradient Reds
The vibrant color is more fitting for the verb explore however maybe it's a little too vibrant, with a stark contrast between the white and the red and maroon. I tried to do a lighter shade of red but that just makes pink which isn't ideal. The dark red almost looks a little scary and off-putting especially if it's outside in nature. The color itself is very pretty though :)
Process
Final Models (Changing Lighting & Angles)
Changing Lighting Types
The warm light is very compatible with this red tone, almost reminding me of fire. The white however does not really match this tone.
Gradient Blues
This color fits the sky especially since I want my structure to be outdoors. The shades of gray can also be a more fluid gradient from the white, unlike the red.
Process
Final Models (Changing Lighting & Angles)
Struggles & Things to change
- Craft issues: As I painted over the bottom of the dome modules several times in different colors, the paint started to layer and grow thicker. I had to make sure the paint didn’t fill up the slits or else the pieces would no longer interlock. After painting each piece, I ran my exacto knife through the slits just to ensure they were all still open. Even though I did this, since the modules were getting thicker, it made them harder to interlock together in small spaces.
- The pieces also started to lose their integrity as I painted them repetitively. They would grow limp and furry as the chipboard grew weaker. I’m curious to see if spray paint would solve this issue? But how would I get different gradients with spray paint?
- I’m interested in trying to experiment with different colors on Photoshop/ digitally next time to avoid ruining the quality of my modules.
- I learned that for right now it's not necessary to paint both sides of some modules since the interior sections aren’t really visible from exterior views.
- I’m interested in bumping all the gradients in the grey iteration up one level (white = light gray, dark gray=black) to see how it would look. I also might experiment with an all-black model just because I’m curious :)
- Explore combinations of different colors in the same iteration — I didn’t try it this time since the modules are already complex and didn’t want to make it more confusing.
- Consider ways to create some sort of path to enter the structure on the left side??
- What colors better represent exploring? Should it be solid and not a gradient?
Reflection/ Process
- The shadows created by the differing angles of light were very interesting due to the cutouts and hexagonal shapes of the structure. I appreciate that when light shines on the form, there is a shadow under the dome section, allowing for those inside to feel like they're in a more enclosed space compared to the open left side.
- When the light would hit the chipboard model, it naturally created a gradient where the bottom of the dome almost appears as if it's in a darker shade of brown than the rest. This is what inspired me to create the same gradient in the colors I painted.
- I decided against creating some sort of pattern with the colors since the modules themselves are already complex and solid colors with simplicity would complement it.
- I enjoyed how the white tops brought the two sections together so decided to not change those modules and only recolor the ones on the bottom of the dome. I decided to continue with the half lighter, half darker color pattern since it seemed to be a more subtle gradient that fits with the natural shadows that the dome would typically have.
02.11.2021: Day 4 — Making New Forms & Adjectives
Group Critique
- The blue gradient appears the most exploratory and also fits in with the natural color of the sky
- The white tops of the pieces can’t actually be seen by people! Alternate some blues into the right side as well so when people are inside they can see blue and not just white on one side and blue on the other.
- Take photos from the perspective of a viewer (no one would really see it from a birds-eye view)
Task
- Find 3 adjectives to describe a place (ex. inviting, warm, cozy) (ex. spacious, cold, large)
- Convey these adjectives in the piece —considering the color and lighting
- Show the structure to 3 people not in this class — ask them what words they would give (3 adjectives)
- Analyze if your intentions were reflected in your audience
— Remaking Modules/Figures —
Revised Model 1
Changes:
- Made some modules on the left side blue to be more cohesive with the right
- Took better photos in the perspective of the people
- White light from the right angle is the best for shadows and coloring
Top Views (Best Lighting)
Side Views
Dome Views
Views in lower & Interior POV
NEW Model 2 (kinda failed :(( )
Changes:
31 modules
- Hoping to better integrate the modules, I tried to make the figure completely round to be more cohesive, eliminating the need for the larger modules. I wasn’t a huge fan of the asymmetrical design.
- I made 15 new modules to make the other half of the dome.
- To make the figure more fitting to this structure, I changed the verb to Observe
- Natural lighting enters the open structure through the cutouts and geometric shapes, similar to the style of an observatory — the verb Observe illustrates that people can sit, stand, or lay down looking up at the stars at night or the blue sky and clouds during the day. The blue gradient is intended to blend in with the sky and sun.
Problems:
- I didn’t like the design — too simple and repetitive with no real interactions — all the modules are connected in the same direction and no movement except for circular — looks like a donut.
- Having painted the first set of modules so many times, the slits grew weak and flimsy. The new modules I cut out stood upright but the blue-painted ones kept falling over as shown in the photos. When I put the whole dome together, that one side was significantly less sturdy and limp, easily turning flat, concaving outwards (picture below on left)
NEW Model 3 (Final Idea)
Changes:
Based on the points I didn’t like about the previous experiment, I went back to keeping parts of the 3 hexagon module in the middle to connect 2 semi-circles and breaking the perfect circular form to create some asymmetrical nature. This also created a more open space in the middle for people to sit and stand in the sun that isn't shady like under the domes. I took several photos from lower angles and tried to get interior shots which were more challenging since my phone did not fit in the inside space.
Should the verb be observe — synonymous to an observatory or should it be gaze like stargazing?
Top Views
Side Angles
Detail & Lower Perspective POV
Interior Views
Final Verb & Adjectives
Verb: Observe
Context:
- Placed in an outdoor location so light can pass through the cutouts; the dome provides shade on both sides while the middle section remains more open.
- People can sit, stand, or lay down within the space, looking up at the stars at night or the blue sky and clouds during the day. The blue gradient is intended to blend in with the sky and surroundings — similar to an observatory.
Adjectives: Open/ spacious, peaceful, free, vast, blends in with surroundings, enclosing, enveloping, exposed, safe, peaceful/ soothing
User Input
Person #1: (Mother): fantastical, panoramic, intricate, aesthetic, expansive, serene
- “The vast and elegant structure makes me feel calm and motivated”
Person #2: (Older Brother): industrial, vast, interlocking, futuristic
- “It’s geometric, fractal, crown, toroidal” “ Reminds me of the Apple Infinite Loop”
Person #3: (CS friend): Elegant, peaceful/calm, relaxing
- “blue is peaceful and calming like waves” “the ocean is also vast and large”
Person #4: (Business Friend): Balanced, airy, thick
- “kind of looks like yin yang for balance, also looks like lungs lol”
Person #5 (Margot & Dani): enclosing, introspective, relaxing, lounging, peaceful, calming
Reflection & Things to Change
- Thinking about toning the colors down to be more calming and soothing — a lot of people said that about the structure
- Taking photos in a softer light so the shadows don’t look as scary
- I appreciate that most of the people got vast/expansive/spacious
- I like the water analogy one of my friends made — I wasn’t thinking about that at all, more thinking about sky
- Should I digitally draw in people for some of the perspectives?
- Make a more clear entrance for the structure
- I chose observe over gaze as my verb
- I think I like this form a lot more than the previous ones with half a dome, it seems more cohesive as a space designated for a verb
Dani Office Hours Critique
- Maybe I can tone down the blues to be more soothing instead of the perfectly the same tone as the sky — make darker blue deeper
- The three hexagonal piece on the bottom is blue but the one on the top is white — make them both the same to be symmetrical
- Maybe vast isn't the best word since it's not that big, enveloping is more fitting
02.17.2021: Day 5 —Refining Structure
Q Critique
- Change the gradient — three discrete colors/ layers make the figure appear simple — layering of colors is good for showing distinctions between floors (which is not the case for my structure). Experiment with randomizing colors (adding some dark hexagons to break regularity)
Process: Changing Colors & Patterns
Module Outlines
Photoshop Experiments
Experimenting with colors
- Photo on left— Added darker hexagons in the middle row and lighter on the second — randomized but still has an overall gradient (top row lighter than the bottom)
- Photo in center — Tried orange and green (complementary colors), didn’t use it because it takes away from the blue in the context of the environment
- Photo on right — Experimented with 6 different shades of blue, adding in a few very dark navy hexagons sporadically for variety — need to be more precise with their locations
Experimenting with patterns
Drew in dark navy lines on the top lighter row and light blue lines on the bottom hexagons to create a sense of cohesiveness within all of the different pieces. The pattern doesn’t go in any particular direction — faces different directions in each hexagon to avoid alternating; I’m unsure if I will actually paint this pattern. The lines also remind me of constellations, synonymous with the purpose of the form.
Painting Experiments
Painted one side of the figure while trying to maintain a gradient but also with an element of randomization — not stringently alternate.
Comparing the two sides, I think the newly painted part is much too random, and the speckled hexagons distract from a cooling atmosphere of the structure. I’m going to repaint some of them to maintain the gradient better.
So next, I made the top part lighter to establish a slight gradient again and added in the navy lines on the top hexagons.
Finished both halves
People Experiments
Final Structure
Different Views
Final 3 Mock-Ups
Verb: Observe
Adjectives: Enveloping, Peaceful, Introspective/ Balanced
Context:
- Placed in an outdoor location so light can pass through the cutouts creating interesting shadows; the dome provides shade on both sides while the middle section remains more open.
- People can sit, stand, or lay down within the space, looking up at the stars at night or the blue sky and clouds during the day. The inconsistent blue colors are intended to blend in with the sky and surroundings and exude a serene, calming feeling — similar to an observatory.
Reflection
- I enjoyed looking at everyone’s vastly different structures; it was very interesting to see how these little modules corroborate meaningful structures and spaces when combined. In the beginning, I struggled a lot to visualize structures from the 2d modules, and hopefully, I have gotten better at that.
- I learned more about the properties of chipboard — a material I wasn’t very familiar with — exploring the dynamics of scoring to create fluid forms as well as how changing the position of slits on a module can drastically affect the composition of the structure.
- I understood the importance of considering people’s interactions with the forms, visualizing where they would sit, walk, stand, and deciding on appropriate scales synonymous with the structures that we live in every day.
- Changes in shapes, colors, and lighting can drastically impact one’s emotional reactional to a form, while pointy edges may be dangerous, soft colors could exude a peaceful tone, dark colors indicating scariness, bright lights appearing inviting.
- I recognize the importance of considering context for our structures and how the form will interact with the atmosphere, people, and the environment around them depending on their placement, which I believe is very applicable to designing spaces in real life, like what Connor mentioned in his video.
