Snowflake Canopy

Parametric Design | Installation Art

The concept of Snowflake Canopy is nature-inspired and focuses on bringing the outside in. Since it was constructed during winter, we based the main geometric module on a simplified snowflake shape and its inherent characteristic that "no two snowflakes are alike". Different parametric variations can be made based on the geometric variables chosen: module shape, pattern, attractors that change the thickness of the modules, and the density of the extra element (attached to the main structure and made out of a different material).

Using the measurements of the selected indoor area and the geometric variables aforementioned, we built the definition in Grasshopper. After much prototyping in small scale, we built the Snowflake Canopy and hung inside the Pratt Institute Industrial Design lobby for display. Using coated nylon for the main structure and translucent vellum for the extra elements, we attached the modules with translucent plastic snaps.