Dynamic Environment started as an experiment of morphology and physical form transformation as a response to issues within the built environment. The picture below shows the first physical structures built which is a responsive facade system.

Afterward, the experiment was replicated to address a wide range of issues working with students in a studio context. The video below shows students work in the Focus Studio at the Department of Architecture, Kennesaw State University.
The Studio
Dynamic Environments studio focuses on the development of reconfigurable structures that enhance occupants' social and physical experiences of the built environment. The studio addresses the question of how reconfigurable spaces can enhance our wellbeing and how the inhabitants of a space prefer to interact with reconfigurable structures. In particular, the studio discusses the "cyber-physical" computing, its social values, usability, and the technical aspects of developing reconfigurable architectures.
Technical Implementation
This project is an advanced artistic project that uses Arduino and the Firefly/Grasshopper environment to create a physical architectural model that reacts to data.
- Rhino/Grasshopper Serial Bridge: The Arduino receives a stream of 3D-modeling data from Firefly (a plugin for Rhino). This data represents "Solar Exposure" or "Wind Pressure" on a virtual building.
- Kinematic Actuator Synchronization: The Arduino moves multiple micro-servos or stepper motors to "Re-Shape" the physical model in real-time, demonstrating how architecture can physically respond to its environment.
Performance
- Sub-100ms Data Reflection: The system is optimized for high-frequency serial updates, ensuring the physical model moves in perfect synchronization with the virtual 3D sliders in the Rhino software.
More here: https://www.geno-morph.com/rg
Studnets:
Adam Leicht, Katie Masters, Evan Murray, Holly Pagel, Didier Porter, Salman Sajwani, Farhaan Samnani, Rana Al Rawi, Brandon Arroyo, Anthony Bah, Francesca Boakye, Kishan Desai, Sandy Ferrier, John Jones
Instructor:
Mostafa Alani