Stuti Bindlish - Selected Works (2016 - 2024)

Computational Designer

CAVITY SHELL

Ongoing Research Project |Structural Optimization + Formwork Additive Manufacturing

MOD(ULAR) PODS

Academic Project |Topology Optimization + Robotic Additive Manufacturing

QUBBA

Academic Research Project |Computational Design + Clay 3D Printing

BUTTERFLY STOOL

Academic Project |Digital Fabrication + Robot Rod Bending

FLAT PANEL CONTOUR PLUG-IN

Academic Project |Gh Plug-in Development + 3D Printing

TANGIBLE PIXELS

Academic Project |Artificial Intelligence + Digital Fabrication

Personal Project |Design for Virtual Reality Immersive Environments

Academic Project |Integrative Systems + Building Codes

foreword

In the realm of design, where the tangible meets the intangible, a new narrative unfolds—one that traverses the spectrum from architectural design to design technology. Here, at the intersection of these evolving terminologies, I offer a window into my journey through my selected past and present explorations. The visual narrative embedded within these pages—marked by a deliberate gradient of colors—serves as a metaphor for this evolving narrative.

The works presented herein are not merely designs; they’re a reflection of a quest to address the unexplored questions shaping our world. These projects do not just coexist; they converse, challenge, and complement each other, weaving a space for themselves in innovation. My portfolio is grounded in design innovation through the lens of digital fabrication and computational design, aiming to expand the possibilities of our built environment.

As you move through these pages, I invite you to engage with the work on your terms—much like design itself, open to interpretation. I hope to spark a dialogue that is ever-evolving and to explore the limitless potential of our creative endeavors.

Welcome to a conversation about the future of design—a dialogue I look forward to continuing with you.

-Stuti Bindlish

CAVITY SHELL

Sequential cast in place method to create compression only structures with ultra thin additively manufactured formwork assemblies

2023 / Ongoing Research

Design Team

Stuti Bindlish

Zaid Marji

Instructor Mania Aghaei Meibodi

Mediums

Rhino + Grasshopper, SLA 3d Printing, 3-axis CNC Milling

Keywords

structural optimization, topology optimization, additive manufacturing, computational workflow development, formwork design, 3D graphic statics

Phase

Built Prototype

Published Conference Paper Patent Pending

Project Brief

Cavity Shell introduces an alternate in-situ approach to constructing compression-only structures. It involves assembling lightweight 3D-printed plastic formwork into a compressiononly configuration for the casting of concrete. To overcome the issue of hydrostatic pressure, instead of casting the entire structure at once, this research adopts sequentially casting concrete. This is achieved through developing an integrative computational model. To verify this research method, a 1:1 scale compression-only table leg structure measuring 1.4 meters in radius and 0.8 meters in height, was designed and built. The construction and fabrication method developed in this research demonstrates the potential to rethink the construction of compression-only structures by minimizing the material used and improving economic and environmental efficiency in their construction life cycle.

Design

Form-Finding Method for a Compression-Only Form

Formwork System Design

Hydrostatic Membrane

Casting inlet

Materialization

Formwork Discretization

Constraints

Casting Logic

Hydrostatic pressure

Structural Logic

Fabrication Constraints

Build volume of SLA 3D printer

Assembly

Sequential Casting

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY - ILLUSTRATING DIFFERENT PHASES OF DESIGN

Dimension

height: 800 mm (2’6”)

radius: 1400 mm (4’10”)

DIGITAL MODEL - COMPRESSION-ONLY TABLE LEG STRUCTURE

FORM FINDING METHOOD - USING 3D GRAPHIC STATICS

establishing global equilibrium corresponding force diagram subdividing force polyhedral constrained form diagram form diagram materialization elevation of the formwork

fc

internal compressive forces

hydrostatic membrane form diagram /center lines for formwork formwork

h:

HYDROSTATIC MEMBRANE PLACEMENT - IN THE FORMWORK

CASTING SIMULATION - IN RELATION TO HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE

H: structure height

hydrostatic height

last casting cycle

a) casting inlet in relation to hydrostatic

second casting cycle

first casting cycle

b) casting interface while casting

c) casting interface aligned perpendicular to internal forces

CASTING INLETS

Casting inlets enable sequential casting of the assembled compression-only formwork. The placement and height of these inlets within the formwork depend on the achievable casting height, with respect to hydrostatic pressure. The formwork has numerous casting inlets for each pouring cycle and their openings are strategically located on the same Z plane, which enables the concrete to fill each segment adequately until complete saturation is achieved during the designated casting cycle.

CASTING INLET POSITION - AT SAME Z PLANE FOR EACH CASTING CYCLE

casting interface aligned perpendicular to the direction of internal forces

hydrostatic membrane casting inlet formwork

SLA 3D PRINTING

This research uses a setup of three SLA 3D printers, each having a build volume of 219x123x250 mm, , to 3D print the formwork of Cavity Shell using ABS-like resin. The entire formwork was segmented into 54 discrete 3D printed segments based on the build volume of the SLA 3D printers, and was distributed over 27 prints. These 54 discrete segments were printed at a layer height of 50 microns culminating in a total printing time of approximately 400 hours.

Formwork discretization into 54 discrete segments distributed over 27 prints

STEP-BY-STEP ASSEMBLY - (1 & 2) 3D PRINTED FORMWORK ASSEMBLED IN COMPRESSION-ONLY FORM, (3) FIRST STAGE OF SEQUENTIAL CASTING, (4) SECOND STAGE OF SEQUENTIAL CASTING, (5) THIRD STAGE OF SEQUENTIAL CASTING, (6) COMPRESSION-ONLY TABLE LEG STRCUTURE WITHOUT FORMWORK AND SCAFFOLDING

Formwork prototyping with a thickness of 1.5 mm making it ultralightweight to transport

Minimal scaffolding comprising of 3D printed holders, threaded rods and turnbuckles

The scaffolding support placed at predicted deflection points during the casting process.

Elevation of the cavity shell during second casting stage

MOD(ULAR) PODS

Post-rationalization of 3D-printed joint and rod system for a deployable spatial space frame structure

2023 / Ongoing Research

Design Team

Stuti Bindlish

Zaid Marji

Raha Kamravafar

Instructor Mania Aghaei Meibodi

Mediums

Rhino + Grasshopper, Thermoplastic 3D

Printing

Keywords

topology optimization, robotic additive manufacturing, spatial space frame structure

Role form finding process rationalization of form to joint-rod mechanism

toolpath generation

Phase

Concept Development

Built Prototype

Project Brief

Mod(ular)Pods innovates in the field of modular construction, offering a solution for rapid, scalable tiny home or any temporary public structure. This project leverages the use of spatial space frame structures it’s structural principles combined with robotically manufactured assemblies, pushing the envelope in sustainable construction by incorporating recyclable materials for 3d printing. A 1:4 scale printed joint prototype is printed to test the project’s feasibility, showcasing an assembly system that redefines nonconventional space frames for quick, global deployment. This approach not only minimizes material usage but also enhances economic and environmental efficiency throughout the construction lifecycle. Mod(ular) Pods reimagines conventional space frame structures emphasizing it’s adaptability, sustainability, and global applicability.

Design

Form-Finding

Rationalisation of Form to Joint and Rod System

Objectives

Deployable Structure

Easy Assembly - Reassembly

Robotic Additive

Manufacturing

Topology Analysis

Define Slicing Method

Mesh Segmentation

Toolpath Generation

Prototype Testing

Spatial Space Frame

Complex Branching Sytem

Modular Sytem

Optimized Material Usage

Low Cost and Accessible

FORM FINDING METHOD - ITERATIONS GENERATED FOR THE FORM

DESIGN METHODOLOGY

The design process leverages principles of 3D graphic statics for spatial structure design, creating a network of lines, i.e form diagram to identify critical structural members under tension or compression. This approach aims for simultaneous system optimization and form design, enhancing control over geometry through strategic subdivision, preventing member buckling. The project further progresses by discretizing the structure into 3D-printable joints and standardized rods for efficient and affordable assembly. The spatial joint then integrates advanced slicing methods for

various branches, applying non-planar heat methods for nodes, tween for angled branches, and planar printing for vertical elements. This approach ensures each segment is optimized for structural integrity and material efficiency. An algorithm is developed to slice and sort these segments, leveraging graph theory and search algorithms for precision. The culmination of this process is the Tool Path Compilation, where organized curves are crafted into multi-island toolpaths. This strategy maximizes printing efficiency and ensures the structural integrity of the final output.

SECTION OF THE MODULE

SELECTED SPATIAL JOINT FOR PRINTING

STEP 1: SELECTED SPATIAL JOINT

The selected joint facilitates strong connections between structural members, allowing for the distribution of forces across the structure.

STEP 2: TOPOLOGY ANALYSIS FOR SLICING

Topology analysis is required to consider the specific constraints of the Kuka 120 to 3D print and assign different slicing methods.

STEP 3: MESH SEGMENTATION

Employed varied slicing strategies to achieve the precise geometry required based on topology analysis.

STEP 4: GENERATED TOOLPATH

Organize each segment into well-defined curve groups, correctly named and ordered for the printing process for slicing and sorting followed by compilation of the organized curves into a comprehensive multi-island tool path designed for optimal printing.

4

1 Printing Bed

Kuka 120

2 Pellete Feeder: Mix of PETG and Carbon Fibre

3 Printing Nozzle

Initial prototyping to create rafts for the multiple branches

Side elevation of the joint while printing

Robotic 3D printing of multi-branched spatial joint system

QUBBA

Innovating toolpath strategies for intersecting geometries in robotic clay extrusion

2022 / Academic

Design Team

Stuti Bindlish

Zaid Marji

Mohammed Karkoutly

Instructor

Catie Newell

Mark Meier

Mediums

Rhino + Grasshopper, Clay Printing, Python

Gh Script

Keywords

robotic clay extrusion, g-code development, toolpath optimization, mass production, bespoke clay modules, dome assemblies

Role parametric model development of the design toolpath optimization g-code development

Phase

Concept Development

Built Prototype

Project Brief

Qubba utilizes computational design and robotic clay extrusion, innovating in the creation of structurally integral, self-supporting, non-planar clay modules optimized for robotic planar constraints. This project introduces a continuous extrusion technique for intersecting geometries, enhancing module fabrication with a focus on rapid assembly and scalability. The design algorithm incorporates advanced toolpath generation by weaving together contours of intersecting geometries for a continuous print, eliminating retraction needs crucial in clay printing. It addresses the challenges at intersecting angles to ensure print stability without additional support. Qubba aims to integrate digital fabrication techniques with traditional materials exploring the complexities of clay properties and robotic fabrication, charting a future where technology and craft converge to create spaces that are both innovative and deeply resonant.

UNIT ARRANGEMENT PROTOTYPE

These units are tangible study model 3d printed on desktop printers for understanding the spatial and geometric relationships between the individual modules that will make up the larger structure. Each module exhibits a unique facet arrangement, hinting at the modular intersections that will occur when these units are assembled into the final dome design.

DOME DISCRETE UNITS

The four essential modules displayed here are engineered for the Qubba dome’s construction, with a design that tapers from wider to narrower profiles to facilitate airflow throughout the structure. Three of the modules exhibit intersecting surfaces for structural interconnectivity, while the first, dictated by its internal angle, has no intersecting surface. This deliberate lofting ensures not just the structural integrity of the dome but also contributes to its environmental responsiveness, allowing air to circulate smoothly within the assembled space. DESIGN

PROCESS: MODULAR DOME SYSTEM

1

Dome Design

Top View Axonometric

Ts

Ts start point

first layer print toolpath

second layer print toolpath

TOOLPATH DESIGN

The toolpath design is realized through a computational framework, that maps input geometries of ‘Shorter’ and ‘Taller’ forms via polylines. This process involves algorithmically contouring these geometries to define a ‘Layer Height’ of the print layers. The algorithm designed integrates the contours of both geometries, enabling a continuous print without retraction, crucial for maintaining the integrity of clay materials. Curves that extend beyond the intersection of geometries

are culled, sorted and organized for aligning the printing nozzle’s movement. Additionally, the design algorithm extracts control points from initial layers to create precise planes for robotic alignment, optimizing toolpath for specific robotic movements and commands, thereby reducing unnecessary motion and potential print defects. This includes careful planning around the intersections of differing angles to ensure structural stability and print quality.

ROBOTIC CLAY EXTRUSION - SHOWCASING THE LAYER HEIGHT AND TOOLPATH DEVELOPED

3 Kuka 60

1 Clay Extruder

2 Base attached to Kuka

TRANSITION IN PLANARITY OF THE UNIT

DOME ASSEMBLY

1

2

Discrete Unit Assembly

Board Scaffolding for Assembly

Angled Cutting Guide for Non-Planarity

Post processing unti for creating the non-planar edge

BUTTERFLY STOOL

Exploring the intersection of robotic metal rod bending and 5-Axis CNC milling in modern furniture design

2022 / Academic Work

Individual Project

Instructor

Glenn Wilcox

Mediums

Rhino + Grasshopper, 5-axis CNC

Milling, Robot Rod Bending, 3D Printing, MIG Welding

Keywords

digital fabrication, robotic metal rod bending, 5-axis cnc milling, design integration, furniture design innovation, technological craftsmanship

Phase

Built Product

Project Brief

Butterfly Stool project reinterprets

Gry Holmskov’s Angel Stool through the lens of digital fabrication while preserving the essence of its silhouette. The design challenge was to push the capabilities of robotic metal rod bending and advanced CNC milling. Utilizing a Kuka 120 robotic arm, the project achieved fluid, organic curves of the metal rods, while the wooden seat was flip-milled using a 5-axis CNC routing process, to ensure a flawless finish. This project not only aimed to preserve the utilitarian essence of the stool but also to push the boundaries of digital fabrication. Butterfly stool is a result that pays homage to original design through its form, while its execution showcases the innovation and potential of digital fabrication in furniture design and manufacturing.

ROBOT ROD BEINDING

The robotic arm was programmed using SMT (Super Matter Tools) to bend 5/16” metal rods with meticulous accuracy, resulting in the fluid and organic curves that are characteristic of Holmskov’s design. The robot bending enables production of precision-engineered curves in the metal rod that echo the fluidity and grace of the original design.

CONVERGENCE OF METAL LINES

The juxtaposition of the stool’s metallic structure with the warmth of its wooden seat creates a dialogue between materials. It is a a perspective view beneath the stool and the rods, precisely bent and arrayed in a radial pattern. The wooden seat, with its concentric lines, echoes this radial motif, highlighting the attention to detail in the stool’s design.

1. Kuka 120

2. Conveyer Belt

3. Gripper

4. Hydraulic Bender

5. Metal Cutter

The top series captures the wooden seat’s evolution, where the intricate CNC milling creates the stool’s iconic, flowing seat contour. The lower series shifts focus to the assembly, where the metal rods, bent into fluid forms by a robotic arm, converge with the wooden seat.

(1) Botton View of the Seat: It is the stool’s seat in the midst of CNC milling. The visible cutouts are designed for flipcuts, showcasing where the stool’s legs will seamlessly connect,

(2) Top View of the Seat: The seat is in semifinished state, where the layered woodwork, shaped by CNC milling, emerges into its final

form, (3) Finalizing the Stool Seat (Bottom View): The linear cutouts indicate where the metal connectors will integrate and the larger cutout is for integrating the 3d printing jig for metal rods, (4) Finalizing the Stool Seat (Top View): The layered wooden arches create a visual and tactile rhythm to the stool seat, (5)

Interlocking Metal Rods with the 3D Printed Jig: Each metal rod is bent and precisely fit within the grooves of the 3d printed jig, (6)

Connection Detail: This detail exemplifies the seamless integration of distinct materials and the meticulous attention to detail required in contemporary furniture design.

flip milled plywood seat

3d printed jig

5/16” bended metal rod rods welded to the metal plate

plywood base

Side Elevation

Front Elevation

FLAT PANEL CONTOUR PLUG-IN

Developer version slicing plugin developed for grasshopper for 3D printing non-solid geometries

2022 / Academic Work

Design Team

Stuti Bindlish

Jake Brown

Instructor

Arash Adel

Mediums

Rhino3d, Grasshopper (UI Development), Python, Visual Studio Code

Keywords

slicing algorithm, plugin development, nonsolid geometries GCode generation, wall systems, panel manipulation, curves and points, rapid prototyping, educational tool

Phase

Developer Version

Project Brief

Flat Panel Contour (FPC) is a developer-version slicing plugin developed in two weeks that facilitates the 3d printing of facade panels or any geometry based on curves and points. It explores beyond traditional 3D printing by facilitating GCode generation for non-solid geometries i.e. curves or polylines. FPC provides a direct link from design to fabrication with toolpaths compatible with Silkworm, Super Matter Tools, or Kuka PRC. Its efficiency is underscored by the ability to print structurally sound panels in merely two layers, with corrugated patterns ensuring rigidity. This algorithm development exemplifies innovation in digital crafting, pushing the boundaries of rapid prototyping in the educational domain.

Generated Toolpath from FPC Plug-in

Analysis Feedback from Toolpath Points

out of printable range within printable height stuti bindlish | selected works

Pattern Genration Based on the Area

TOOLPATH GENERATION - FROM CURVES TO THE PRINTABLE PANEL

CODE FLOWCHART - DEVELOPMENT OF TOOLPATH GENERATING COMPONENT

input data

FPC developed component

any G-code generator plugin, in this case

Silkworm

(1)start routine, (2) main body, (3) end routine

PRINTED PANELES

Panels are printed with only two layers, however the corrugated patterns add strength and rigidity to the panel. plugin not only corrects out-of-range toolpath points but also estimates printing time and material usage for desktop 3D printers, enhancing design accuracy and project planning. This functionality makes it an essential tool for optimizing digital fabrication processes, ensuring efficient and cost-effective 3D printing projects.

FLAT PANEL CONTOUR PLUGIN DEVELOPMENT WORKFLOW

analysis code that analyses toolpath to get total print time & total material used

TANGIBLE PIXELS

Translating midjourney images into fabricated form to investigate the physicality of AI generated imagery

2022 / Academic Work

Design Team

Jake Brown

Raha Kamravafar

Sri Hari Kanth Venna

Stuti Bindlish

Instructor

Catie Newell

Mark Meier

Mediums

Midjourney, Rhino + Grasshopper, MasterCAM, 3-axis CNC Milling

Keywords

AI generated images, textual prompts, digital to physical, material properties, digital fabrication, prototyping process, innovative design methodologies

Role image generation from midjourney translate the image into a mesh prepare mastercam file for cnc milling

Phase

Built Prototype

Project Brief

Tangible Pixels investigates the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and physical design, diving into the realm of AI’s capacity to generate images based on textual prompts and their subsequent translation into tangible objects. Central to the exploration, the larger question for the project was: Can AI not only mimic but deeply understand the intricate material properties of physical objects, such as joints, stress lines, tensions, forces, creases, and the pull of gravity? Moreover, it examines the translation process of an image to a tangible object and the outcomes of merging the iterative essence of AI’s ‘mid journey’ with digital fabrication’s prototyping methodologies. Tangible Pixels is an attempt to find answers to these broader conversations and fostes a nuanced understanding of the symbiosis between AI-generated designs and physical object creation, thereby paving the way for innovative design paradigms.

COMPUTATIONAL MANIPULATION OF IMAGE TO MODULE - TEXTURE MAPPING

MIDJOURNEY GENERATED IMAGE

It is the chosen Midjourney image where computational design techniques are applied to investigate and deconstruct the visual elements, setting the base for subsequent digital fabrication exploration.

5. create topological continuity and bilateral symmetry

6. convert into solid geometries

MODULE IDENTIFICATION IN AI-GENERATED IMAGE

The image highlights the primary modules integral to the overall form and designated the connectors that will facilitate assembly. This step underscores the critical analysis and planning phase, where AIgenerated aesthetics are dissected to discern structural elements for digital fabrication

1. AI generated image 2. base image for manipulation

3. conversion to 3D mesh

4. mesh topology to subD

Prompt: a reconfigurable foldable futuristic wooden hanger with architectural form.

C1 & C2

TECHNICAL REPRESENTATION - FOR FABRICATION PROCESS

The image is a technical representation of the transition from digital modeling to the physical fabrication process. It illustrates three primary components, with four connector types for four iterations of dictinct assembly.

On the left, we see a detailed layout prepared for CNC machining, meticulously organized to optimize the use of material and to facilitate accurate cutting.

The layout ensures that each element is produced with the exact dimensions and tolerances necessary for seamless assembly. The crosshatch pattern visible in the model designates areas that will undergo a surfacing process. This modularity allows the physical structure to resemble AI’s mid-journey imagery, maintaining visual consistency despite structural variations.

C3 & C4

P3_upper

P3_lower `

P1_lower

P1_lower

P1_upper

P3_lower `

Aromatic Cedar

Spalted Maple

P1

P3

P2

C1 & C2

C3 & C4

Configuration 1 Configuration 2

Configuration 3

STAGES OF DIGITAL FABRICATION - FROM CNC TO ASSEMBLY

(1) CNC machine equipped with a milling cutter, poised to carve into wood, (2) CNC path is etched into the plywood, outlining the P2 module’s geometry, (3) the progression of the milling operation as the CNC machine precisely shapes the wood, (4 & 5) close-up of an interlocking joint, a critical element for modular connection, (6) individual wooden components post-machining, with their

complex contours and joints fully articulated, (7) separate elements laid out, ready for assembly, (8) elements connected, forming the structural module. This visual narrative not only showcases the journey from digital design to tangible object but also emphasizes the precision and adaptability inherent in CNC fabrication for modular construction.

Primary Componet 1(P1)

Primary Componet 2 (P2)

Primary Componet 3 (P3)

Connector C1, C2, C3, C4

MOUNT HEREAFTER

Post-apolcalyptic metaverse environment that explores the architectural elements of past and future for creating an immersive experience

2020 / Personal Work

Design Team:

Idress Kasu

Ligia Filgueiras

Matheus Stancati

Pranayita Myadam

Stuti Bindlish

Instructor Team of Futurly

Mediums

Maya, Zbrush, Rhino + Grasshopper, Sansar (Social VR Platform)

Keywords

post-apocalyptic VR, immersive experience, spatial design, architectural innovation, user journey and engagement, artistic visualization, virtual ecosystem

Role designing user jouney

3D development of elements of the enviroment development of interactive elements in SANSAR

Phase Published as a Metaverse on Sansar

Project Brief

Mount Hereafter is a virtual reality experience designed and set in 4000 A.D., exploring humanity’s remnants on a fragmented Earth, now a cosmic archipelago. This journey begins on fragment Xae12, guiding users from a fragmented rock descent into a fogenveloped landscape towards the mystical Tree of Life. It merges past and future, challenging VR architectural norms to create an immersive narrative. The design intricately weaves biotic elements and light effects, leading users through caves and tunnels to reflection spaces at the Tree’s base, encouraging contemplation. The project is launched on Sanasar, inviting users to experience a blend of architecture and innovation. Through rigorous testing and feedback integration, this project offers a unique glimpse into a future forged from the vestiges of time.

SETTING THEME

Year 4000 A.D., on fragment Xae12, formerly part of Earth, now a floating fragment in the galaxy for exploration of humanity’s future after a series of apocalypses

VISUAL AND AUDIO DESIGN

By integrating futuristic landscapes with the remnants of the past and pairing them with spatial audio that captures the essence of the setting, the experience becomes more than just visually stimulating—it becomes an environment that users can feel present in.

NARRATIVE JOURNEY

This narrative element weaves through the VR experience as a storyline, engaging users in a storyline that spans from the history of humanity to speculative futures. By taking visitors on a journey through time and space, the experience fosters a connection with the broader human experience, emphasizing themes of survival, innovation, and the eternal cycle of destruction and rebirth.

SANSAR PLATFORM INTEGRATION

Utilized Sansar’s scripting API to develop dynamic interactions within the VR environment which offered a more personalized and engaging journey through its narrative, making each user’s experience unique.

ELEMEMTS LEADING TO TREE OF LIFE

These paths and tunnels are used for the user’s journey through the VR experience. They allow for dynamic storytelling and exploration and the users can interact with these environments while eraching the Tree of Life

PROGRAM

1. Fragmented Galaxy Rocks

2. Oculus/Cave

3. Tunnels

4. Pathways

5. Tree of Life with Interactive Water Orbs

6. Cave Platforms

7. Existing Architectural Elements

Program stuti bindlish | selected works

1. Entrance

2. Pathway

3. Stairs

4. Reflective Zone

5. Fragmented Rock

ZONE MAPPING - PLAN

Navigating to the Tree of Life becomes a captivating journey, unveiling layers of introspection. As explorers traverse through caverns and passageways, they are invited to ponder a world stripped of familiar landscapes and modern technologies. This exploration along divergent trails prompts a meditation on personal relevance against the backdrop of the Tree’s vastness. This voyage rekindles a deep-seated respect for our natural surroundings, which have been overlooked

through the ages. The journey culminates in a serene area at the Tree of Life’s foundation, ushering visitors into a profound experience. Here, the essence of our bond with nature, long absent from our collective consciousness, is rediscovered. The endeavor presents an unparalleled chance to reconnect with the environment in a meaningful manner, fostering significant personal insight and metamorphosis.

1. Procedural Branching

2. SubD Base Trunk

3. Agent Based Root Elements

4. Discrete Trunk and Tree Skeleton

BRANCHING EVOLUTION OF BIOTIC ELEMENTS - MODELING IINTEROPERABILITY

Decomposed Debris

Tree Skeleton Trunk Vines Growing Roots

2. SubD Base Trunk

Full Debris

REFLECTION AND INTERACTION ZONES - MESH MODELING

REFLECTION AND INTERACTION ZONES - SANSAR RENDER

SECTION AA’ - DETAILING THE USER’S PATH THROUGH THE EXPERIENCE

The drawing illustrates the paths ultimately leading to a central space of reflection at the base of the Tree of Life, where visitors enter a transcendental experience. Through this encounter, they come to understand the significance of the connection to nature that has been missing from the human experience for far too long.

Key Plan

SOFT CITY

Transforming greenway, it’s urban development and fostering community through flexible units, sustainable design, and innovative façade system

2023 / Academic Work

Design Team

Stuti Bindlish

Zaid Marji

Instructor Christina Hansen Lars Gräbner

Mediums

Rhino, Luminon, Building Codes of Detroit

Keywords

Urbanism, adaptability, human-non human engagement, biodiversity, flexible design, co-living, modular architecture, user-centric design, dynamic facade development, environmental performance, human-centric spaces

Phase

Conceptual Design

Project Brief

Soft City proposes a shift from isolated structures in Detroit to an integrated, adaptable architecture that accommodates both human and ecological inhabitants harmoniously. At its core, the project introduces bioswale as a catalyst for change, seamlessly melding urban and natural elements. They sculpt the cityscape, allowing for a fluid visual connection across plazas while supporting a biodiverse ecosystem. Flexibility becomes central to the project while designing modular unit plans to meet varying residential needs. From fourbedroom family homes to individual co-living spaces, these units, coupled with transformable furniture, evolve with their users. Structurally, Soft City pioneers a dynamic building envelope featuring movable CLT panels, empowering residents to customize their living spaces. This multifunctional approach merges environmental stewardship with architectural innovation, embodying a new paradigm in urban living.

Interweaved Paths and Bioswale

URBAN STRATEGY

The bioswale serves as a catalyst for the designing the urban fabric that is adaptable and inviting—a habitat that embraces the diversity of its human and non-human residents. Introducing a bioswale also signify the starting point for radical thinking of design and becomes the natural segregation between public and private zones. Lifting the building allows the urabnscape to visually connect public and private plazas, creating a soft city

Bioswale as a Naturaal Barrier

Bioswale as a Catalyst

Existing

Site - Urban Context

that caters to not only developers and human residents but also other biodiversity. The greenway is intricately intertwined with the bioswale with curvy paths and invites residents and visitors to explore the natural elements seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric. The project identifies an opportunity to transform the urban fabric, transitioning from detached, standalone structures to a cohesive, participatory architecture.

4.

Single Loaded Corridor

Double Height Activity Space

Egress + Elevator

Multi-Family/Co-living Unit

Fire Escape Egress

Enterance Lobby

Arcade/Activity Space

Half up - Half down Parking

OVERALL PROGRAM DIAGRAM - EXPLODED AXONOMETRIC

Double height community gathering/activity space

Arcade that serves as a cafe

View of the courtyard from the balcony of an apartment

Monday Morning, 7:00 AM

Bedroom 1: Alex is catching some extra sleep before the workday starts.

Bedroom 2: Jordan is sleeping after a night shift at the hospital.

Bedroom 3: Taylor is doing some light stretching in bed.

Bedroom 4: Riley is up early, planning the day.

Tuesday Afternoon, 2:00 PM

Bedroom 2: Jordan has turned their bedroom into a study space.

Bedroom 3: Vacant, Taylor is at the studio teaching yoga.

Bedroom 4: Riley is working from home, laptop on the bed amidst a sea of papers.

Living Room/Kitchen: Alex cools down post-run, watching a favorite show.

Wednesday Evening, 7:00 PM

Bedroom 1: Alex is in their room, finishing up some design work for the day.

Bedroom 4: Riley lounges on the living room sofa, joining the relaxed evening vibe.

Living Room/Kitchen: Jordan is busy preparing dinner in the kitchen.

Saturday Night, 9:00 PM

Alex, Jordan, Riley and Taulor are socializing and hosting in the living area, with a set up of a mini gaming station for anyone interested.

Living Room/Kitchen Fully reorganized for a lively gathering, with food, drinks, and music as the residents and their guests enjoy the weekend.

DETAIL A

Black monocrystaline photovoltaic modules

Battens 1.5 inch

Counter battens/ventilation gap 3 inch

Roof membrane

Wood fibre thermal insulation 11 inch

Spruce laminated timber sheeting 4 inch

DETAIL B

Silver fir shingles 1.5 inch

Timber sheeting 1 inch

Counter battens/ventilation gap 2.5 inch

Wind seal

Wood fibre thermal insulation 9 inch

Spruce cross-laminated timber 4 inch

DETAIL C

Wood siding .5 inch

Weather wrap 0.1 inch

CLT 3.5 inch

Vapor retarder 3.5 inch

Schöck Isokorb® Thermal Breaks

W beam 6 inch

Aluminum track 2 inch

WATER CEMETERY

A water-based resting place for chicago’s unclaimed bodies, bridging life and afterlife through design.

2022 / Academic Work

Design Team

Stuti Bindlish

Zaid Marji

Margaret Jane Gies

Instructor

John Ronan

Mediums

Rhino, Luminon, Ritual Movie

Keywords

water cemetery, unclaimed bodies, ritual and reflection design, urban memorial, sustainable burial, contemplative space, industrial aesthetics, experience design, emotional engagement, narrative architecture

Phase

Conceptual Design

Project Brief

The project addresses the issue of unclaimed bodies in Chicago and utilizes water as a material to create a long-term memorial and resting place for the hundreds of unclaimed bodies that are left every year in the city. The project is ritual-driven and is designed so that 364 days of the year, the site acts as a memorial and park for visitors to pay their respects. However, on the shortest day of the year, the 22nd of December, a barge descends upon the memorial to shepherd 200 ice urns through a shallow pool to a corten steel plate frame that acts as the final transition site for the remains and the souls of the unclaimed. As the sun sets, the urns are lit and the corten steel frame begins to heat the ice. The water forever remains a companion for the changes of state for the nonliving and living in this Water Cemetery for the Unclaimed. The project honors the unclaimed souls of Chicago and provides a peaceful and reflective space for visitors to pay their respects.

BURIAL SYSTEM - ICE URNS

The project’s burial system utilizes water as a guiding element. The remains undergo aqua cremation, where the body is washed repeatedly with water to activate a gentle and respectful transition. This process reduces the remains to clean bones that are gathered and placed in a two-foot cylindrical urn made entirely of ice.

BURIAL SYSTEM - CORTEN STEEL PLATE

Inspired by the industrial Chinatown neighborhood in downtown Chicago, the project utilizes water and corten as a material to create a long-term memorial and resting place for the hundreds of unclaimed bodies that are left every year in the city.

BURIAL RITUAL - MELTING OF ICE URN

The transformation from liquid water to ice on the urn symbolizes the body’s passage to an after-death state. The ice urn is then melted on corten steel plates, transforming the water guide from ice to steam. As the steam rises, the bones are revealed and returned to the earth below, signifying the soul’s departure from the body.

Ossuary View

Ossuary / Water Cemtery

Ghats

Bending of corten steel to create bearing walls, steps, and partitions

Hammering of corten steel in the ground

moments of expansion and compression moments of landscape and vegetation

moments of corten

SITE STRATEGY

The site is designed to be a journey of introspection, with moments of expansion and compression marked by the corten steel and the shallow pool holding the ice urns. The site is inspired by the industrial nature of the area, and the use of corten steel sheets to level the site creates bearing walls, steps, and partitions. The corten steel frames are surrounded by a shallow pool of liquid water, which constantly changes its state. TThe cemetery’s site plan offers a captivating journey from

urban edge to tranquil memorial through a sequence of meticulously designed spaces. Visitors enter via a corten steel arch, moving through secluded areas to open fields and a reflective green-roofed courtyard. The path meanders towards a riverside courtyard, culminating at the water cemetery, framed by corten steel and ghat steps for ritual observation. The experience ends in a dedicated memorial space for the unclaimed, doubling as a park for year-round reflection and remembrance.

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Green-roofed covered courtyard with a single viewing lookout to the river Water cemetery revelation point and entry to the ghats Connection of the site to the urban edge - Entry to the Site

Program

1. Enterance Plaza

2. Garden/Play Area

3. Lookout Arae for Contemplation

4. Transition/ Meditation Zone

5. Ghats/Rememberance Zone

6. Water Cemetery/Ossuary

Memorial of the Unclained

Exit Plaza

CUSTOMIZED BRICKS 1.1

Blending computational design and traditional craftsmanship to innovate brick construction in India’s architectural landscape

2016 / Winter School

Design Team

Students of Digital Crafts: Customised Bricks 1.1 (Winter School 2016)

Instructor

Urvi Sheth

Shehzad Irani

Mediums

Rhino + Grasshopper, RhinoVault

Keywords

asymmetrical catalan vault, local craftsmanship, digital fabrication, artisan support, Digital Crafts India, customising bricks

Role digital prototyping physical prototyping

Phase

Built Prototype

*Copyright of all images and drawings is held by Urvi Sheth and CEPT University. The materials have been edited by the portfolio author for presentation purposes.

Project Brief

The project explores the integration of craft-based methodologies with computational design to innovate brick construction. The research emphasizes a computational craft approach, leveraging local craftsmanship and digital fabrication techniques to navigate the complexities of constructing an asymmetrical Catalan Vault in India. Utilizing standard bricks, the project employs RhinoVault for Thrust Network Analysis, optimizing structural efficiency and material use within a predefined spatial volume. The process embodies a ‘whole to parts’ strategy, realizing a funicular structure. The pavilion serves dual functions: a play area for children and a demonstrative model of integrating digital design with traditional building practices. This initiative highlights the potential of computational design in supporting artisans, addressing design-to-construction gaps and advocating for sustainable, localized architectural solutions.

PAPER MODEL PROTOTYPE

The research initiated with a predefined bounding box volume of 30 cubic meters (3 x 3 x 3 m), incorporating flexibility to alter dimensions while maintaining the same volume. This parameter evolved to 270 cubic meters (10 x 6 x 4.5 m) during the design development phase. The study integrated RhinoVAULT, a plugin for Rhinoceros®, derived from investigations into structural form-finding through Thrust Network Analysis (TNA) to intutively create compression-only structures. This paper model was made using Ivy for Grasshopper.

CONCEPTUAL RENDER

A plan footprint of 9.5 x 6.0 meters was established, incorporating five boundary supports, two central supports, and two cut-outs. The central supports were specifically designed to integrate details inspired by Frei Otto’s teardrop columns. A height restriction was set at a maximum of 4.5 meters, with certain areas further reduced to 1.8 meters to enable children’s interaction with the structure, allowing them to climb and slide down from one of the central supports.

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Shell Shape in Plan

Generated Shell in Vertival Equilibrium

Final Form Developed

Form Diagram Force Diagram in Horizontal Equilibrium

DESIGN WORKFLOW

STEP 6: Remove the cardboard visual guide from the prototype

DIAGRAM OF CONSTRUCTION SEQUENCE

During the prototyping stage, a construction method for the Vault was developed. A review of various literature studies was conducted, and a stepwise sequence was established in collaboration with other Winter School participants. A scaled prototype (1:5) was

then constructed following the established sequence of construction to understand the shell behavior during construction. The step-wise sequence of construction was based on the IAAC pavilion (Block Research Group).

STEP 5: Complete the masonry shell at the top

STEP 4: Begin construction at the central support once the masonry from the outer support reaches the maximum cantilever limit without scaffolding

STEP 3: Build a masonry shell with MDF bricks between the boundary curves, guided visually (without scaffolding)

STEP 2: Constructing boundary curves using scaffolding

STEP 1: Making a visual guide and waffle scaffolding using cardboard

Masonary Shell

Edge Scaffolding

Waffle Scaffolding

(Top) A visibly dramatic change in the space owing to the pulling down of the surface from roof to column; (below) the cladding of the footing continuing the structural language