Platelet Partition

Platelet Partition

OTA+ as Architects

Finalist /// 2011 ACADIA Design + Fabrication Competition


Concept ///


The Platelet Partition is one permutation of a multi-layered organizational system that uses material difference and scalar variability to create asymmetrical carapaces. Each carapace is supported by a small group of branching vertical tubes which are suspended between clusters of horizontal bridges. The rigid backbone ties into the flexible carapace to form an integrated and structurally sound partition that seamlessly tiles and can be parametrically reconfigured according to size, program and/or use.


The form of the Platelet Partition is based on a grid and diagonal pattern (initial metric drawing) developed within the 2' x 8' x 8' size limit. Though it began with a symmetrical pattern, asymmetrical regions were activated as the carapace outlines to allow for seamless tiling in the event the partition is repeated to form a larger surface. The pattern continues to guide the formation of each component of the partition assembly, including the vertical and horizontal structural system and the surface perforation on both the vertical structure and the carapaces.


Each region selected from the initial metric drawing varies in scale per component to further blur the edge of a tiled partition unit, but also to limit the appearance of smooth gradients; a condition typical of many parametrically design wall systems. The multi-layered Platelet Partition benefits from the advantages intrinsic to parametrically designed wall systems, including varied programmatic opportunities and adaptability, while avoiding the limitations imposed by a single component system.


Material and Assembly ///


The Platelet Partition weaves two materials, Alpolic ,a rigid aluminum composite panel, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a flexible translucent sheet good, into one structurally sound wall. Gravity loads follow vertical tubes within each carapace and are transferred into horizontal bridges attached to the flexible carapace via unfolded tabs. The load passes through the tabs, back through a different set of horizontal bridges and into another network of vertical tubes supporting a lower carapace. The clustering of horizontal bridges that fill the gap between separate vertical tube networks are the keystone of the structural system, binding the rigid structural core to the flexible carapace surface.


Each part of the partition assembly is unfolded and ready to be CNC milled. The design of the Platelet Partition allows for a certain amount of customizability. Using fewer sheets, as little as three, you can make one partition. If a client wants to increase the amount of carapaces, the structural capability of the partition, or the porosity of the wall for programmatic and/or aesthetic preference, additional material can be used.

Products Behind Projects
Product Spotlight
News
Detail: sliding panels of natural pine protect a residential complex from the Mallorcan sun
29 Mar 2024 Detail
Detail: sliding panels of natural pine protect a residential complex from the Mallorcan sun

Spanish architecture firm OHLAB has recently completed Paseo de Mallorca 15, a residential complex o... More

Snøhetta designs new extension for the world’s oldest ski museum in Oslo
28 Mar 2024 News
Snøhetta designs new extension for the world’s oldest ski museum in Oslo

Global transdisciplinary architecture and design practice Snøhetta has designed a new entranc... More

10 public buildings that demonstrate architectural applications of precast concrete
27 Mar 2024 Specification
10 public buildings that demonstrate architectural applications of precast concrete

Precast concrete is made by casting concrete in a reusable mold. These molds are made of various mat... More

Sameep Padora and Associates creates a flowing, organic art center in southern India
26 Mar 2024 News
Sameep Padora & Associates creates a flowing, organic art center in southern India

Mumbai-based Sameep Padora & Associates (sP+a) has completed Hampi Art Labs in Toranagallu, a vi... More

Introducing Partner Thermory AS
26 Mar 2024 Partner News
Introducing Partner Thermory AS

Thermory AS offers a diverse product range that includes durable exterior cladding, decking, interio... More

Brooklyn Tower by ShOP Architects showcases a unique materiality
25 Mar 2024 News
Brooklyn Tower by ShOP Architects showcases a unique materiality

Brooklyn Tower, standing an impressive ninety-three stories tall with a unique neo-deco crown, is al... More

Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright join Archello Awards 2024 jury
25 Mar 2024 Archello Awards
Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright join Archello Awards 2024 jury

Doriana Fuksas, Martin Lesjak, Li Xiang and Steven Wright have been announced as Archello Awards 202... More

Vurpas Architectes converts former brick and concrete market into light-filled primary school in Lyon
22 Mar 2024 News
Vurpas Architectes converts former brick and concrete market into light-filled primary school in Lyon

The Eugénie Brazier school project in Lyon, France, undertaken by regional architecture studi... More