Fabrication Inspiration

amazing algorithms and subdivision processes to generate a new column order that defines and elaborates. While it is all to easy to admire the computer skills and then pass off as unbuildable the beauty of this project is the actual physical artifact and its fabrication process, i find the layering build up effect to be very effective and the in progress photo speaks of an architectural language that can be readily applied to an entire building scale
the imagesand text were found on DESIGN BOOM
http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/14052/michael-hansmeyer-ornamented-columns.html

michael hansmeyer: ornamented columns
'ornamented columns' by michael hansmeyer
all images courtesy michael hansmeyer


zurich-based architect and programmer michael hansmeyer has sent us images of his latest exploration
into computational architecture, 'ornamented columns'. working with the CAAD group at ETH's
architecture department, hansmeyer has created a series of columns - both 3D and in actuality - that
utilize algorithms and subdivision processes to generate a new column order that defines and elaborates
its system of ornament.

taking an abstracted doric column as a point of departure, individual components are identified
through the subdivision process which works on a number of local parameter settings based on
the input form's topography as well as its topology. the result is a complex and idiosyncratic
language that exhibit very specific local conditions and forms.

the 2.7-meter high fabrication is painstakingly constructed from 1mm layer grey board sheets
which have been individually cut using a mill or laser then stacked together on poles that run
through a common core. consisting of over six million faces, the circumference of some sheets
measured along the cutting path can reach up to 8 meters. since the initial prototype, tests using
ABS, wood and metal have been under way.
http://www.designboom.com/weblog/cat/9/view/14052/michael-hansmeyer-ornamented-columns.html