Mechanism in Design Studio: A Transformable Space Design and Construction

Department of Architecture, Kennesaw State University, Georgia, USA

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Abstract

Historically, architecture has been perceived as a stationary creation and thus the study of mechanisms or kinetics was beyond its scope of curriculum-based architecture studios. This is particularly true for functional spaces that are used by occupants often needing flexibility in space use. In the last twenty years the design of small spaces for functional optimization has become an area of increasing interest. Interiors having transformable spaces through kinetic walls, moveable partitions, foldable surfaces, dynamic furniture, etc. is an area that can be a valuable studio learning for curriculum-based design education. The study of mechanisms and understanding their application in design can enhance the quality of smart spaces that are multi-functional. The use of hinges, gears, cranks, levers, coils, springs, struts, principles of weight and counterweight, principles of tension-compression to formulate design ideas to incorporate various kinetic elements is one of the objectives of this studio. It is to be noted that the scope of the studio was limited only to design and construction and not on follow-up evaluation of its use or effectiveness.