Prismatoid Forest is a competition project for University of Rochester . It takes into consideration the academic history, specific aspects of the University of Rochester curriculum and a desire to provide an integrated visual experience relative to the campus at large. The university houses the nation’s first educational program devoted exclusively to optics in addition to an innovative Laboratory for Laser Energetics.
With these references in mind, the concept, incorporates and signifies a relationship to campus technological traditions through the formal use of translucent prism objects. The aggregate pieces create a forest of illuminated prisms. The Prism Forest creates a visual experience through the use of signature elements, way-finding devices and delineators in the landscape that establish a relationship with the triangular lattice work of the campus pathways.
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Initial Concept Renderings
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Concept Rendering with lighting 3
The Prism Forest pieces are constructed using 3/8� thick cast acrylic. The acrylic sheets are laser cut to form the finger jointed pattern.
This technique
provides for a very unique edge condition that both refracts light at the joint intersection and provides structural integrity. The prisms are illuminated from within at night which enhances the refractory edge condition. During the day, the use of a luminescent colored acrylic appears to glow under natural light.
Scale model and lighting test 4