Infinitive Vaults

Exploration on Developable Surfaces

2023 Spring

GSD Design Seminar

Instructor: Sean Canty

This project explores the use of convergence as a technique for manipulating developable surfaces. By intersecting two 90-degree cones, a sinuous curve is generated that extends infinitely and becomes the profile for skylight openings. By mirroring and intersecting the unit at different distances, fragments of the infinite curve are extracted, creating spatial variations in different scales.

To anchor the structure to the ground, the material transitions to stone near the bottom of the unit, where the ideal geometry becomes infinitely narrow. This connection to the ground provides stability and a sense of grounding to the structure.