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Minimal Complexity

"Minimal Complexity" is the result of an architectural design research project on digital methods for 3D modeling and fabrication of minimal surfaces. Although these are mathematical concepts whose geometries are obtained using differential equations, the project addresses an alternative computational method to simulate these surfaces. The practical part of the project develops various systems for the digital construction and fabrication of minimal surfaces with applications in architecture and industrial design or even clothing.

Taking triple periodic minimal surfaces as a case study, the research from a manufacturing point of view is centered on efficiency through modularity and repeatability of the constituent components, all these parameters being part of the initial algorithm. As a result, the final product consists only of repeated sets of a minimum number of different parts that can generate surfaces with highly complex geometries and high structural rigidity.

The theoretical paper "Minimal Surfaces as Self-Organizing Systems", which formed the basis of this project, was presented at the ACADIA Conference in New York in October 2010, and the first prototype made of Plexiglas was exhibited in the summer of 2010 at the ARUP Phase2 Gallery in London as part of the exhibition entitled "Constructing Realities".

"Minimal Complexity" is the winning project of the REPEAT digital design and fabrication competition organized by TEX-FAB in Houston, Texas. Chosen from a field of 95 entries, the project was initially built in January 2011 by the TEX-FAB team. The final structure was made from 148 sets of 16 different components, totaling 2,368 aluminum parts, which made up a highly acclaimed assembly due to its outstanding structural and aesthetic properties. Subsequently, the project won the American Institute of Architects - AIA Houston award for "Divine Detail" in March 2012.

With the support of the Romanian Cultural Institute in London, the project was included in the International Architecture and Design Showcase, part of the London Festival of Architecture 2012. The project can currently be visited in the Granary Building atrium - Central Saint Martins, in London, until August 3. 'MC/2', the latest prototype in the Minimal Complexities series, is also included in LFA 2012 and was unveiled at an Open House event organized by Surface and Momentum as part of the Digital Shoreditch Festival 2012. The structure is composed of only repeated sets of just 2 types of components and opens a new chapter in the series of experiments entitled Minimal Complexities.