Architecture Of A Dream

In a small lot between two buildings on Silver Lake Boulevard, there exists a site called Materials & Applications (M&A) that seeks to explore the latest ideas in architecure, design and building materials. This space is a non-profit entity that invites noted artists, architects, and theorists to have a "sandbox" in which to "play" with form, shape, structure, and medium. M&A seeks to encourage the public to be drawn into, made aware of, and explore the built environment and learn of the newest concepts to emerge in architectural design. The ultimate goal is to also explore practical applications for new materials, while having the public along for the ride. This is in direct contrast to most activities of this sort which usually take place hidden away in some artist's studio or debated behind closed doors of architectural firms. 

The current installation is called "BLOOM" by Doris Sung of USC. Sung seeks to experiment with "organic" buildings--in that they mimic life. In this case she has erected a structure that is made out of thermobimetal, a sheet metal alloy that reacts to temperature. When exposed to the sun, the structure's "skin" curls and forms shade and ventilation openings. When cooled (as in the night or winter), the structure closes up like a flower. The practical uses for this would be astounding. Imagine windows that closed and opened on their own in response to heat or cold, entire buildings that reacted according to the weather conditions, and a smart enviromentally-friendly way to regulate ventilation and climate within a structure.

Increasingly I see the buildings that were only possible in my dreams, began to take form in my waking life.