Air Brick
This project explores an architectural system built from ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) — a transparent membrane material used to create structures composed of air-filled cells. These cells come together like the components of a living organism, forming a soft, flexible architecture. Each unit is shaped three-dimensionally from ETFE, and interconnected by air-transfer tubes that allow internal pressure to be adjusted. By modulating the air within individual cells, the structure’s form can adapt to its surroundings.
While many architects have spoken of organic architecture since the time of Frank Lloyd Wright, their interpretations often stop at soft or fluid forms. In contrast, true biological softness lies in a system of adaptable, interconnected elements — one that responds to its environment through inner flows and flexible relationships. This project seeks to move beyond the rigid, mechanical order often found in Western architectural systems. Instead, it proposes a living totality — an organic wholeness informed by Asian sensibilities. The work was created for an exhibition at a gallery in Shanghai.
Exhibition Title: In Between
Venue: Shanghai Gallery of Art at Three on the Bund
3rd floor, 3 Zhong Shang Dong Yi Road, Shanghai, China
2010.06.04 – 2010.08.08
Pavilion
20 m2
