staircase one
Using a generative design process, or topology optimization, we created a set of stairs using a simple set of preserves and obstacles. By creating a simple linear set of stair steps, and a V-shaped inset base, we allowed the algorithm to generate geometry in any way it found best. The result was this X-shaped/wishbone formation.
staircase two
Our second staircase was designed to directly compliment the first – acting almost as a direct inverse. Rather than having the supports coming from the floor, we wanted them to emerge from the ceiling in a very similar fashion to the first.
ten-story stair structure
Inspired by the work of Christian Kerez, we developed a minimal structure that well compliments the complicated geometry of the stairs. This also allowed for us to create an interesting visual effect where a pattern can be seen from one elevation directly, but then becomes unrecognizable from any other angle.
continuity
The structure also allowed us to place the two complimenting staircases in-line with one another, creating a single continuous staircase rising two floors.
algorithmic structure
For our final iteration, we decided to take the idea of randomness to the extreme. Rather than aligning the stairs on each floor in a predetermined fashion as we did before, we wanted to make this purely algorithmic. So we developed a simple algorithm to produce a random set of points within a given space since we wanted to have the stairs be randomly dispersed and rotated along each floor. This allowed us to develop a fully computer-generated structure. The resulting structure was very interesting and a bit disorienting, creating a completely different character than the human-generated designs that came before it.
