ENSWATHE

Processing Studio

Year: 2017

Site: Onehunga, Auckland

Tutor: Emma Morris

Enswathe (v). envelop or wrap in a garment or piece of fabric

This conceptual project proposal visited Onehunga on the Manukau Harbour, a site with many stories, past, present and future. This paper focused on the process of parametric model making and the use of parametric tools which allows for the normal design process architects go through of "optioneering", to be accelerated and expanded.

The program that was proposed for this design was an Aquatic Sports & Recreation Centre stretching along the Manukau Foreshore Walkway extending underneath the motorway towards the Onehunga port. Its main activities includes indoor pools, a gymnasium, kayak activity on the artificial beach, undisturbed internal and external walkways and a transport terminal.

My design process explored the transformative and adaptable quality of textiles. Fabric is easily influenced and versatile in terms of its characteristic. Inspired by electron microscope experimental photography of wheat, in the beginning of the project, and the conceptual wax models that were made, the project took shape by mimicking the elaborate and delicate folds as a nod to the nature of fabric. Ultimately I used Maya's nCloth simulator and specific methods to produce the complex folds that I wanted.