Ball-Nogues Studio
Los Angeles International Airport
In this project by Ball-Nogues Studio, 450,000 feet of precisely ordered metallic bead chain is suspended within a five-story atrium. Each full chain is composed of multiple sections of chain of different colors. The organization of color is informed by both the architecture of the space and the natural light that enters. The chain patterning precisely corresponds to the shadows cast by the atrium's structural beams on two astronomically important dates: the summer solstice and the vernal equinox.
Working closely with Ball-Nogues Studio, we created custom 3D form-finding software to explore the design of Air Garden , and to apply color to chain volumetrically. Additionally, we produced computer rendered illustrations and animations to promote the project, collaborated with Buro Happold to analyze structural engineering requirements, and developed a custom computer-controlled machine to cut the chain and assist in assembly.
Ball-Nogues Studio