GHASSAN ALSERAYHI
 MSc. Arch, M. Arch, B. Arch, Assoc. SCE

ARCHITECT + EDUCATOR + RESEARCHER
VERTICAL PARK
MINIMAL SURFACE AS
A DESIGN METHOD


SUBJECT: COMPUTATIONAL GEOMETRIES
TYPE: DESIGN RESEARCH SEMINAR
INSTRUCTOR: MANIA MEIBODI
DATE: 2021
In this project, the aim is to generate a random branching system that is also controlled by the XYZ direction. This project takes into consideration the idea of implanting/building a sense of awareness or consciousness within the code. The code is designed to recognize points that have already been used in generating shapes and to avoid them when generating the next point. This helps in creating curved lines, thereby influencing the overall configuration. Building on the instructor’s research on 'minimal surfaces,' the geometries created in this part of the seminar focus on generating grid structures as a method. 

This approach aims to simplify digital modeling and fabrication through the use of repetitive elements within the geometry itself. The highly symmetrical and optimized physical properties of these geometries, particularly the Gyroid surface, inspired the exploration of designs that utilize fewer structural elements and more spaces. These design proposals are not necessarily functional, but allow for the testing of ideas and concepts.

The act of annotating margins blurs the lines between reader and author, reminiscent of Roland Barthes’ concept of ‘The Death of the Author.’ In this space, the reader becomes a co-creator of meaning, challenging traditional notions of  authorial intent and textual authority.

Drawing parallels between marginal notes and marginalized societal voices yields deep insights. Marginal notes’ ability to redefine texts suggests significant potential in elevating marginalized topics and voices. This perspective prompts rethinking central themes in intellectual and social narratives. Embracing marginalia aligns with Thomas Kuhn’s paradigm shifts concept, challenging traditional prioritization logic and urging a reevaluation of importance in texts and society.

















Creating the Batwing Geometry as Part of Studying
the Minimal Surface Effect/Phenomenon








Devoloping a Combined and Compacted Units that are Consist of the Small and Major Units:

A minimal surface is the surface of minimal area between any given boundaries. In nature, such shapes result from an equilibrium of homogeneous tension, e.g., in a soap film. Minimal surfaces have a constant mean curvature of zero, meaning that the sum of the principal curvatures at each point is zero.









   


       



















   







Larger Scale Application:

By applying the Minimal Surface geometries to the vertical structure, we connect these different levels through the voids within the geometries. The continuous void then allows for the installation of the vertical element, which, conceptually, is the staircase in this case.

















In this particular case, the logic behind adding the staircase is to take advantage of the voids in the geometries by passing the vertical element through them, at least in theory. Practically, when installing the staircase into these minimal surfaces, it might require some modifications in the design of the staircase or in the connections between the stairs and the minimal surfaces.