The Voussoir Cloud by San Francisco-based architects, IwamotoScott, is a site-specific architectural installation using an age-old masonry vault paradigm with an intent to “confuse the structural and material strategies”. A series of intricate geometric studies and structural simulations result in a system of compressed vaults created by grouping together a light-weight, wedge-shaped modular element called the Voussoir. At closer look, the Voussoir, or petal, is formed by folding paper-thin wood laminate along curved seams, and are key structural components in forming the arches. Simply a solid piece, and breathtaking, especially with the experience of light and shadow, as if you’re walking through clouds.
Don’t go yet. More images after the break!
exterior surface showing the folded voussoir ‘masonry’
bird’s eye view of the vaults
examples of the computational diagrams
close-up of the compressed petals
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wow! this is gorgeous, both visually and tectonically! wish i could have seen it in person.
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