Petal Pods is the final design outcome for a studio project requiring the development of a maker space and exhibition studio for the G39 Architecture, Engineering, and Science building at Griffith University.

The conceptual design language for this maker space was derived from a native floral species (purple flower above) found in the gardens surrounding G39. This led to investigations into the structure of pollen, flowers, and organic forms as seen above.

Below are early conceptual drawings and renders of what the intervention may have looked like.

Final Design Breakdown:

CONTRUCTION: Construction would utilise evolutions of existing building practices. These would include a 3D printed carbon fibre reinforced concrete core. Each pod would be supported by precast concrete structural elements that will lock together to create a unified system. Onto these will be attached prefabricated fibreglass panelling, formed from CNC machined moulds. The central dome and lift well would be constructed from conventional welded steel.

TECHNOLOGY: This project would utilise a semi-transparent photovoltaic film, applied to the roof and petal structures to create a unified solar panel. A Photochromic film would be applied to the ceiling glass of the central dome to reduce the penetration of direct sunlight, reducing heat gain but maintaining natural light when the sun is at low angles.

Click below to download the final presentation material for this project: