Sea Slug Pavilion - Aquatic Inspired Computational Design

​Design Inspiration.
The Sea Slug Pavilion references organic sea creatures or “Slugs”, along with the geological features of a sandstone coastline. There are openings in all directions similar to small rock pools underfoot and pits in the overhanging surfaces of cliffs by the shore. The tunnel like shape fluidly twists and morphs similar to the movements of the ocean, providing the audience with a dynamic visual landscape as is seen in nature. The design is inviting and low to the ground at one end where people would enter to explore the form and peer through the numerous openings to smaller samples of the surrounding landscape providing focus as well as security. The other end is elevated and acts as a viewing platform out of the pavilion where one can sit with legs dangling to people watch, think and pass the time.

Computational Design.
Through the use of Rhinoceros 3D and Grasshopper a simple parametric design was created which was able to rationalize the size of each opening relative to the curvature at which it intersected with the shell. The parametric nature of the scripting design and simple rhino curves provided design flexibility and regenerated the hole patterns with each manipulation of the curves in rhino until the final form was reached. Simple stilts provide the design with transport-ability and ease of installation across various locations, gradients and surface finishes.