Under Magnitude
In January 2017, the latest work from art/architecture studio Marc Fornes/TheVeryMany was unveiled in Orlando’s Orange County Convention Center.
Under Magnitude is a two-storey, permanent structure suspended in the atrium of the Center, creating a three-dimensional intervention in the vast space.
The idea behind the structure is that it ‘has edges yet is edgeless’, and is an example of the studio’s ongoing development of ‘new minimalist’ digital assemblies – unique constructs that unify skin, structure and spatial experience into a single system.
The intention is that each person who passes beneath the structure forges a different kind of personal connection with its forms, which are borrowed from the natural world but contorted into new and alien constructs.
Under Magnitude is the sum of many sub-elements: a network of branches unified by a single smooth and continuous white surface. The intricate curvilinear shape forms a unified system of both 'columns' and 'beams,' aggregating to create a three-dimensional subspace. The open, tubular branches come together within a Y-shaped plan and reach upwards to form a shape that is both like a vault and a suction cup: a ‘shell from shells’.
The material thickness of Under Magnitude is just a millimetre, thinner than a credit card, yet the structure is strong enough to walk on. This strength is achieved by 'intensive curvature'; the maximisation of double curvature across the form which creates the curly, tubular branching characteristics of the structure.
The studio is building on and challenge the work of Frei Otto and his notion of 'extensive curvature', which determined that a bubble, when blown up to the size of a room, has better structural performance than a box.
Images and content courtesy of TheVeryMany.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.