Animated Light Shade

On a warm day we find relief from the blistering sun under the shade of a tree. In winter we seek patches of sun for warmth. Each, arguably defines in itself an architectural space simply through the manipulation of light and shade. This project explores these two variables and to what extent they can define an architecture. Can light be a skin? Can light be structure? What if that shade was dynamic and responded to those needs? An animated skin.

The system was designed to be responsive on both a macro and micro scale. The system is comprised of a series of pivoting panels that are faceted using rods of varying length. The combination of these two systems allows it to articulate in both the vertical and horizontal axes.

The model was then explored by digitally performing sun studies for the location of Toronto and the findings were used to determine the prototype. While this is one variation, the system is adaptable and can easily be altered to form other surfaces, structures and forms.

Designed in collaboration with Theresa Mader. 2008