Hyperbolic Installation Based on Persian Patterns and Muqarnas ~ Civil engineering

Hyperbolic Installation Based on Persian Patterns and Muqarnas

This installation designed by SCI-Arc students Vincent Pocsik, Zach Schoch, Mike Gross, and Zifan Liu stems from an intensive research on ornamental techniques used within traditional Islamic and Persian architecture. A particular focus was placed on a type of corbel known as Muqarnas. Muqarnas is a three dimensional decoration composed of niche-like shapes, arranged in tiers that usually cover undersides of vaults and arches. Its unique ability to transition between different compositional elements was closely studied in order to create our own order of assembly. Scripting in parallel to manual 2d geometric patterning was used to emerge the pieces design. While rigorous material testing for particular effects and applications influenced the pieces final construction. Creating a system much like the Muqarnas, that could transition effortlessly from different scales and shapes, yet hold a self similarity making its assembly economical.