ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
The Orb is an experiential landmark contributing to the campus’ visual identity.
Edged yet edgeless, surfaces curve, branch, split, rejoin, and split again. This extreme curvature achieved through cutting-edge computational design enables the surfaces to be entirely self-supporting despite being just 3mm thick. Though apparently seamless, The Orb is crafted from 6,441 individual aluminium components, connected by over 217,000 rivets making it not just visually striking but sophisticatedly engineered.
Even before anyone steps inside, the fluid surfaces of the pavilion interact with light, casting irregular shadows that seem to be constantly in flux. Made of perforated aluminium, these surfaces allow daylight to filter through them, creating a dappled effect on the ground evocative of a starred sky. By night, the entire volume transforms into a glowing sculpture, establishing a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that evolves over time.
The Orb is an experiential landmark contributing to the campus’ visual identity. It is an immersive, futuristic space for employees and visitors to gather, explore, and engage. And while the tools used by Marc Fornes / THEVERYMANY to create The Orb are complex, their goal is simple: to craft an experience that evokes joy the joy of wandering, the joy of marvelling.
• Architects: MARC FORNES / THEVERYMANY
• Year: 2025
• Photographs: Doublespace Photography www. doublespacephoto. com
www. theverymany. com
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