Soundship Structure for Children’s Hospital

This project involved the structural design and fabrication detailing of a bespoke seating area for children and families, originally conceptualized by an artist. The design featured an organic, sculptural form, which required translation into a robust, transportable, and buildable structure without compromising its aesthetic integrity.

To enable efficient transportation and installation, the seating structure was engineered in five prefabricated sections. Each section was carefully modeled and analyzed to ensure structural stability both in transit and in its final assembled state. The primary structural framework consists of curved steel rings, into which a series of oak ribs were fixed using custom-fabricated lugs. These lugs were designed to precisely receive each rib, ensuring consistent alignment and load transfer throughout the form.

Each oak rib—uniquely shaped as part of the sculptural geometry—was templated individually. Full-scale templates were created directly from the 3D model to guide precise fabrication and ensure accuracy in curvature and joinery. This approach not only facilitated a high level of craftsmanship but also minimized on-site adjustments and installation time.

By integrating structural engineering principles with the original artistic intent, the final result was a durable, transportable, and visually compelling seating installation that remained true to the artist’s vision while meeting the practical demands of fabrication and site assembly.