hydroelectric waterfall prison by margot krasojevic

‘hydroelectic waterfall prison’ by margot krasojevic, pacific oceanall images courtesy of dr. margot krasojevic

dr. margot krasojevic uses the parameters of digital technology to analyze and create spaces deep-seated with the psychology of its inhabitants. the intangible mental exchanges that occur in architecture create a basis for her designs and often serve multiple purposes. in ‘hydroelectric waterfall prison’ a penitentiary becomes a power station, using the off-shore site of the pacific ocean to generate energy using a ring of wave converters along the main concrete structure. 

the jail in the context of the pacific ocean images © margot krasojevic

the steel reinforced material allows the vertical form to accommodate a floating, tension leg platform tethered to the seabed. tyson turbines further stabilize four semi-submersible columns and bolster a series of cantilevered loops that distribute the weigh of the building. ocean water pumped up to the main concrete structure is distributed to a fiber-clad surface that regulates the pressure of the water as it falls on the turbines. a shaft in the building powers an electrical generator that runs energy to the mainland. in this way, the jail contributes to the harnessing of electricity. holographic filtered glass panels are embedded in a web of reinforced steel creating a layered effect of interior prison life and the surreal ocean surroundings. additionally, inmate’s cells are lined with semi-transparent optical mirror which provides superimposed views into and through the cells, creating a faux-open plan space. these architectonic gestures make the foucauldian idea of the panopticon more complex by fracturing the boundaries of the building and rendering it a kaleidoscopic observatory.

view of the recreational chamber image © margot krasojevic

1/32