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Polymorphic Kinetic Bench

Ten architecture students from Columbia University GSAPP have recently completed Polymorphic, a kinetic installation in the form of a bench.

Utilizing an innovative design and engineering solution inspired by the kinetic action of a see-saw and the reverberating motion of a slinky, the double-sided bench is made of a series of 119 interconnected sections and an interactive balance board. The sections are connected via an inventive pivot and bolt system, allowing the vertical movement of one section to be picked up by others down the line. Together, this motion allows the installation to transform from a series of leveled sections into an undulating form that becomes activated through interaction with its occupants.

The Columbia University GSAPP design group consists of Charlie Able, Alexis Burson, Ivy Chan, Jennifer Chang, Aaron Harris, Trevor Hollyn Taub, Brian Lee, Eliza Montgomery, Vernon Roether, and David Zhai. Polymorphic is a product of Fast Pace/Slow Space, a course taught by Brigette Borders and Mark Bearak. For inquiries contact team2fpss [at] gmail.com.

See it in action:

Jaime Derringer, Founder + Executive Editor of Design Milk, is a Jersey girl living in SoCal. She dreams about funky, artistic jewelry + having enough free time to enjoy some of her favorite things—running, reading, making music, and drawing.