The Forum: A Blueprint for New Construction Methods

Innovative Pavilion Design Wins Golden A' Award

Joel Putnam, Justin Nardone, and Joonhaeng Lee have crafted a pavilion that stands as a testament to innovation in design and construction. The Forum is not just a structure; it is a multifunctional space that serves as a stage, screen, instrument, and backdrop, fostering community engagement and social interaction. This pavilion is a prototype that showcases the potential of digital sheet metal forming technologies to create large-scale, lightweight structures efficiently.

The inspiration for The Forum's design is rooted in the multifunctional use of sheet metal in aerospace and automotive manufacturing. This approach allows a single material to fulfill the roles of structure, enclosure, and design aesthetic, resulting in a cohesive and efficient object. The Forum's design is a harmonious blend of form and function, providing a versatile space for public programming and the arts.

Realization of The Forum was achieved through advanced digital tools, including Rhino and Grasshopper, ensuring the design was tailored to the capabilities and constraints of the manufacturing process. The use of Figur digital sheet forming technology allowed for the creation of each unique aluminum panel without the need for traditional tooling or dies, with an impressive production time of approximately 10 minutes per component. The result is a fluid structure composed of 66 unique aerospace-grade aluminum panels, assembled in less than 12 hours.

With dimensions of 12700mm by 5700mm by 3100mm, The Forum is a significant architectural feat. Its unique properties lie in its modular nature and the adaptability of the manufacturing method to unique shapes, which facilitated the creation of this distinctive structure. The design team's dedication to exploring new modes of manufacturing, assemblage, and organization is evident in the pavilion's tectonics, reflecting its use and capabilities.

Initially exhibited in Chicago during the Chicago Architectural Biennial in 2023, The Forum is now being reassembled in a gallery space in Chicago, where it will continue to inspire and engage visitors. The project's success in creating a new language of construction using state-of-the-art manufacturing methods overcame significant creative and technical challenges, including ensuring the installation was lightweight, structurally sound, and easy to assemble with basic hand tools.

The Forum's recognition with the Golden A' Design Award in 2024 for 3D Printed Forms and Products Design is a testament to its groundbreaking design and the team's visionary approach. This accolade is reserved for outstanding creations that significantly impact art, science, design, and technology. The Forum, with its innovative use of digital manufacturing and parametric modeling, truly embodies this spirit of excellence and innovation.