Adya Singh

AR2049

Catenary Cascade

The core of the project revolves around form-finding techniques inspired by catenary curves, which naturally emerge from hanging chains under the influence of gravity. By examining how gravity creates structures and employing an iterative and hands-on methodology, the process includes building various small-scale prototypes, conducting material tests, and structurally analysing forms to create spatially dynamic and structurally sound architectural forms. The final objective is to design and construct a large-scale prototype that embodies the principles of hanging chain models and catenary curves. The structure will demonstrate how gravity-driven form-finding can be harnessed to create elegant, efficient, and expressive architectural spaces. 


Report Content

Researching hanging chain models and catenary curves, and studying examples where these principles have been successfully implemented, gave an understanding of their principles and architectural applications.

Small-scale hanging chain models were made using different chains of different weights and lengths to observe natural catenary formations.

The gravity-based structures were replicated using several computational design tools for further qualitative analysis.

The digital models were evaluated and reflected on to create the refined models.

The final design integrated two key concepts: multi-level stacking and outward branching.

Due to the increase in the height of the structure, additional bracings were introduced, connecting to the outer columns to ensure stability and support.

The sections reveal the structural composition of the building, illustrating the different floor levels and the columns that provide essential support.

Sectional plans showcase the structural evolution and massing of the structure at different heights, highlighting the characteristics of the design.

An isometric exploded view illustrating the construction of the Large Scale Prototype.

Building a Large Scale Prototype.

Project Video