transitional geometries cover
Fall 2019
Transitional Geometries
3D Concrete tiling through hands-on fabrication
This project was a part of the fabrication graduate course Transitional geometries (A4856) at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation
Course instructor: Joshua Jordan jcj2134@columbia.edu

The goal of Transitional Geometries was to design a three-dimensional tiling system, and then construct an efficient fabrication process that would allow ease of mass production. My tiles were inspired by the curvy patterns of instant ramen noodles, which also have similarities to the microscopic form of cloth weavings.

I chose concrete as the main material because it gives a sense of solidity and weight. When concrete is shaped into undulating patterns, it almost feels uncanny because the material and the shape have seemingly contrasting spatial properties. My tile pattern deconstructs a ramen noodle’s underlying geometric pattern into a rational 2D form, then extrapolated into 3D.

expandable apartments diagram

Deconstructing the geometric underlay of instant ramen noodles

expandable apartments form study

Design studies with various formal combinations

expandable apartments form process

Two-part mold fabrication process

Assembling the wooden container for

the first half of the silicone mold

transitional geometries mold process

Preparing the second half of

the silicone mold

transitional geometries mold process

Concrete micture is poured into the

the void of the two part mold

transitional geometries mold process

Tiles are extracted and treated

for a smooth finish

transitional geometries mold process

The undulating form is designed to be adaptable when fabricated at various scales

transitional geometries diagram
transitional geometries visualization

Small scale

transitional geometries visualization

Medium scale

transitional geometries visualization

Large scale

transitional geometries