WINK SPACE: The World's First Zipper Architecture

Soft, Light, and Moving: A New Era in Architecture

WINK SPACE is not just a work of art; it is a feat of engineering and design. The entire structure is connected by zippers, allowing for parts of it to be opened and closed like windows. This flexibility not only creates a dynamic and interactive experience for visitors but also offers a solution to global environmental problems. With the ability to easily exchange only a part with a zipper, repairs and modifications become simple, reducing waste and extending the lifespan of the architecture.

The realization of WINK SPACE was made possible through digital 3D modeling, using Rhino and Grasshopper software. The structure is made of 1,100 pieces of only two different triangles, constructed from materials such as zippers, MDF, mirror sheets, and wire. The design is housed in a 40-foot-long container, measuring 2200mm in width, 10000mm in depth, and 2200mm in height.

Exhibited at the Kobe Biennial 2013 in Japan, WINK SPACE captivated audiences with its ephemeral and interactive nature. Visitors could witness the transformation of the space as they moved within it, opening and closing different sections like windows. The relationship between the structure and the visitors was intimate, allowing anyone to become an active participant in the design.

Overcoming the challenges of building a zipper architecture required innovative thinking and the use of new technologies. By combining laser-cutting and computational design, KAZ Shirane was able to connect hard planes with zippers, creating a new way to construct architectural elements. The hanging polyhedron, supported by adjustable wires, added an element of flexibility and adaptability to the design.

WINK SPACE received international recognition for its groundbreaking design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Fine Arts and Art Installation category in 2014. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the exceptional creativity, technical expertise, and innovation demonstrated by the design. WINK SPACE showcases the potential of lightweight and mobile architecture, challenging traditional notions of what buildings can be.

The fusion of art and architecture in WINK SPACE offers a glimpse into the future of design. Its ability to transform and adapt to different needs and environments opens up endless possibilities for innovative and sustainable architecture. As we enter the 21st century, KAZ Shirane's vision of soft, light, and moving architecture paves the way for a new era of design.

Image Credits: Masakazu Shirane + Saya Miyazaki