prasiolite state project by settawut leenavong explores characteristics of crystal formation

prasiolite state, or ‘green crystals of bangkok’, is an experimental and ecological architecture project in bangkok conceived by chulalongkorn university undergraduate settawut leenavong. the work explores the characteristics of crystal formation, polygons and various connection of molecular joints. prasiolite takes the inspiration from the name of green crystals which form inside the gas cavity of lavas.

exterior perspective shows the overall aesthetic and the array of structural hierarchy when being displaced onto the site


prasiolite state is a semi-modular outdoor architecture construction. the architecture itself is vegetation bearing shells which offer a variety of functions relative to the intensive forces that surround its site. these forces include the carbon monoxide intensity, ambient noises, heat radiation, temperature, humidity level, and wind intensity. they are the factors that affect the formation of architectural construction. the parametric design enclosure has features which react diversely to various forces to create a space that’s sensitive and optimal to the site they occupy.

the spatial relationship between the structure and its context

the project starts by capturing values. the data readings like carbon monoxide emission from vehicles and all the others were collected through sensors by the arduino software and online sources. the data is then transferred into a spreadsheet and taken into 3D software which then further can be compiled, analyzed and used in the further design process.

interior perspective highlights vertical activities when vegetation starts to undergo prasiolite state

the exterior hard shells were able to protect the enclosed interior from the intervention of a physical environment. however, the heat was able to penetrate through the rock and create a reaction which forms the magnificent colored crystals that are all unique across the crystal-bearing rocks.

interior perspective highlights horizontal activities when vegetation is beginning to grow onto architecture

the project aims to explore the environment readings in numbers to assist in finding the disparity in design experience which may have an essential value on the future of architecture, as well as to implement and utilize technology in design and construction like capturing sensor value, integrate computer-aided design technique and using digital fabrication in manufacturing production. all of which assists one another to create a fresh and smart design system in modern architecture.

the section displays the flow of intensive forces and the motion of the structure when being implemented into the context

interior perspective at nighttime to highlight material changes and the shift in atmospheric experiences inside the space

the drawing cuts through a portion of the structure to emphasis on vertical and horizontal activities as well as the spatial connection they have on the surrounding

the polygons are being packed tightly along the narrow site under skytrain track

the drawing shows a portion of the space to emphasize the displacement of form and performance of the function

fabrication parts, materials, components, and miscellaneous required in the construction of a single module

construct and assemble by hand-folding of colored papers

the drawing shows the radiation exposure, carbon monoxide emission, ambient noise, and humidity level

project info:

name: prasiolite state, or green crystals of bangkok

architect: settawut leenavong

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: maria erman | designboom