Meteorosensitive Hygromorphs, 2012-22

Achim Menges (b. 1975), Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, Germany
Wood and 3D-printed cellulose-polymer composites, 7 7/8 × 7 7/8 × 2 in. (20 × 20 × 5 cm) each
Courtesy ICD University of Stuttgart

HygroShape, 2022

Achim Menges (b. 1975), Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD), University of Stuttgart, Germany
Ash wood, 40 1/8 × 19 × 41 1/4 in. (102 × 48.5 × 105 cm)
Courtesy ICD University of Stuttgart + hylo tech

These meteorosensitive prototypes are designed to autonomously adapt to varying environmental conditions by harnessing the natural response of wood to moisture. Inspired by the structure of pine cones, Meteorosensitive Hygromorphs consists of apertures that open in dry conditions and close as moisture levels rise. HygroShape is a wooden chair that similarly exploits the movement of wood with moisture, assembling itself from a flat sheet to its final configuration upon exposure to drier conditions. Together, these prototypes demonstrate how items may be designed to work with rather than against activity. By functionalizing material responses to the environment, these prototypes envision a future where conservation lies not just with active matter but with activity itself.