Exceptionally difficult task was presented in development of mechanical connections between glass elements, especially beams. It was necessary to provide esthetically non-obtrusive detail that was functional and conforming to the static analysis. My primary goal was the investigation of several lateral support details (see image above) which had to serve a double function: support the front glass elements and provide lateral support. Each beam (shown above) had a different size and geometric parameters based on its location. All non-parallel beams had to be laid out in sections in order to ensure a proper load distribution and bending. Every (initially 12 foot segments) beam was broken up into several segments comprised of three glass layers. Depending on the location of a section, details of the mechanical connection were different at each point of the distribution. In addition, I was responsible for the development of the form of the inner shell, which contains a ticket office. I was also in constant contact with the engineering team who provided me with feedback and comments. Main challenge and achievement were to construct appropriate details that were feasible enough for the manufacturing while maintaining esthetic goals of the original proposal.
Status: Built
Location: New York, NY, US
My Role: Architectural Designer
Additional Credits: Kazuaki Iwamoto