Chambyrinth: A Social Impact Installation by Ronghao Chang

Chambyrinth: A Unique Blend of Architecture and Technology for Social Awareness

Chambyrinth, a combination of labyrinth and chamber, is a physical representation of a virtual social platform. It is an architectural installation that encourages physical interaction among participants, thereby highlighting the importance of human connection in the face of growing digital alienation. The design is a unique blend of architecture and modern technology, creating a dialectical social experience where virtual interaction can be replaced with physical interaction.

The installation is made up of a series of square chambers constructed mainly from wood or polycarbonate partitions. Each chamber is equipped with a Beacon signal sender that interacts with mobile devices. This technology allows participants to visualize the chamber's silhouette on a beacon-enabled app after picking up the signal in the chamber. Participants can then use this mechanism or physically cooperate with others to find the exit.

Chambyrinth is divided into three stages, each featuring specific scenarios. In the first stage, participants use their phones to find their way to the next stage. In the second stage, two participants are randomly paired up by the app, and they are given a map only if they decide to complete the route together. In the third stage, paired participants collaborate with the given map, or an individual figures out the way to the exit via the default mechanism. This open-ended approach results in different outcomes based on participants' decisions.

The project was designed for the themed competition, Meeting Point for Taipei Fine Arts Museum, Taiwan in August 2015. The design process involved overcoming the challenge of explicating the idea through an architectural approach. Traditional understanding of space sees architecture merely as a physical medium. However, with the application of modern technology, this open-ended proposal brings about a collision of different social values and invites people to participate in the discussion through their experience of the installation.

Chambyrinth was awarded Silver in A' Public Awareness, Volunteerism, and Society Design Award in 2017. The design was recognized for its creative and professional excellence, technical characteristics, and artistic skill. It is a testament to Chang's innovative approach to using architecture and technology to provoke discussion about the social implications of our increasingly digital world.