This construct is a physical embodiment of the abstract concept of a 9-square grid which ascends obliquely from a low point to a high point. Each grid space is defined by a central void surrounded by a grain of smaller spaces. This central void of grid space highlights the difference between the 9 square grid and a 4 square grid as it reserves the center as a space and not an intersection. To highlight the ascension, the middle grid space is treated with a curve, mediating the stepping as well as adding visual dynamism.

The material used to build this construct is layered plywood. Each block is arranged in 4 layers of ½ inch sheets in a way where the 4 middle grid spaces are layered horizontally in comparison to the 4 corner grid spaces and the centerpiece, layered vertically. This reinforces the implied movement from the high point to the low point as well as implying the directionality of its axis. Moreover, the reversed display of negative space to positive space and vice versa is done to abstract granularity, reinforcing the central void. Kerfs are added to represent the initial interior rooms from the floor plans. Additionally, they are guides to connecting one block to another. Each of the 9 square blocks is further subdivided into roughly 36 blocks of which some are deleted to imply interior granulation and displaced what looks to be “random” to achieve a connection of interior to exterior. Some of the blocks have been modified less than others to maintain the 9-square grid concept whilst expressing some visual dynamism.

Some of the challenges I experienced in creating this piece were first, determining whether adding the curve helped mediate the stepping of the ascension or not. The material used to build would differentiate individual blocks yet sustain the connection to imply an overall ascension. Wood seemed to be the most effective material as it visually appeals to hardness like concrete but is not as heavy to achieve the connection of floating components. Approaching the construct made out of wood versus made of foam was different in regards to the blade thickness and safety. Making the kerfs using variations of bandsaw was difficult mainly because it was extremely meticulous and the blade thickness impacted how prominent the kerfs would come out visually. Overall, this construct represents the entire initial model which achieved the objective of a 9-square grid concept.