Sun Spots
And the Beauty of Working in Tandem with Nature
Take a load off…
Whenever I need to calm myself down a little, I go outside and get some space.
It isn’t always easy, however to find the perfect spot.
If you find yourself distracted by some elements of everyday life, I invite you to consider a Sun Spot.
Have a break, clear your head, and allow the magnificent beauty of nature to transform you.
Sun Spots (Fall 2024)
This product design project initially began life as an abstract facade model of the Chapel of St. Ignatius in Seattle.
While studying the building in section, light vessels in the roof began to stand out for their structure, and significance to the design of the chapel.
A particular roof form was the inspiration for a brand new project, a structural system of some kind that was adjustable and modular.
The initial plans for the system included a knife plate wedged into a large curved LVL member.
The support post at the top of the arch was reworked several times over the course of the first model, eventually taking on the form shown here.
The LVL structural system would be anchored into a concrete foundation at either end, with an adjustable post that could alter the angle of the arch.
The next step in the process was to consider the many different ways of spanning the gaps between structural members.
Beams were inserted into divots carved along the curve of the arch, to span the distance and support material.
Stained glass became the runaway favorite for its incredible effect on the sunlight that interacted with the outdoor structure.
The stained glass was also linked heavily to the Chapel of St. Ignatius, which uses similar methods to color the light that enters spaces of worship and reflection.
The finalized third model was not without faults, however. The initial post method of supporting the structure provided almost no lateral support and quickly failed.
A new design was developed that involved the use of large cast-form benches to connect the structural elements.
These benches further defined the purpose of each canopy, defining them as places of rest, reflection and gathering.
The stained glass system from the prior model remained in place. The interaction between light and the visitor now an important factor in creating moods and atmospheres.
The final version of the Sun Spot is intended to be an outdoor gathering space, and can be comprised of one or more units that interact with on another and enhance the beauty of the nature around them.