Heaven Bloom: A Kinetic Installation Blooming with Life

Whyixd's Award-Winning Design Transforms a Building Lobby into a Dynamic Floral Display

The "Heaven Bloom" installation is located in the lobby of a building developed by GoldenJade, in collaboration with WOHA, a Singapore-based firm. The building's design, inspired by nature, provided the perfect canvas for Whyixd's creation. The team sowed the seeds of their mechanical flowers into the concrete wall, transforming it into a dynamic canvas. The 144 mechanical metal flowers sway rhythmically to the lobby’s background music, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

Each flower in the installation is composed of more than 50 mechanical components, crafted from aluminium and stainless steel. Different finishes were applied to the metal to create unique textures and colors. The flowers, powered by motors, operate in harmony, creating a near-natural scenario indoors. The installation is set to four different melodies corresponding to the four seasons, with ambient sounds collected from endemic species in Taiwan.

The design process was not without its challenges. The installation was set up on a 7-meter-high marble facade, requiring precise coordination with the construction company. From cutting marble holes at the exact position to installing wires behind the wall, every step was meticulously planned and executed. The team also developed a customized software system to control the 144 motors simultaneously, allowing for real-time motion generation for all the kinetic flowers.

The project, which started in April 2017 and was completed in August 2019, is a testament to Whyixd's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology. The team's research focused on the shape and blooming movement of the Nanhu Rhododendron. Through multiple iterations of motors and mechanical design, they improved the mechanical smoothness, creating an installation that not only mimics nature but also celebrates its resilience and beauty.

"Heaven Bloom" is more than just an installation; it's a dynamic piece of art that brings a touch of nature to an urban setting. It's a testament to Whyixd's innovative approach to design and their commitment to creating unique, engaging spaces. The installation, which won the prestigious Golden A' Fine Arts and Art Installation Design Award in 2021, is a testament to the team's creativity and technical prowess.