The Orb is a striking new pavilion located in Google’s Charleston East Campus, designed by the New York computational design experts, The Very Many. This installation was the result of an international competition organized by Burning Man on behalf of Google, with the winning design selected from 45 proposals. The Orb stands at 10m tall and is made of an ultra-thin, self-supporting aluminum shell structure with intricate perforations that create a play of light and shadow.
The pavilion serves as an anchor artwork for Google and is meant to be a moment of “productive distraction.” The architect, Marc Fournes, describes it as a space where individuals can slow down and engage in visual wandering, exploring the non-linear environment and discovering new perspectives each time they return. The Orb blurs the boundaries between art and architecture, showcasing Fournes’ expertise in computational design honed at various architectural firms.
The installation was a logistical challenge to bring to California during the pandemic, with the thin pieces of the structure laser cut and powder coated in Europe before shipping. The design and construction process took six months, including a public vote to select the winning proposal. The Orb now sits in the open plaza at Google’s headquarters in California, offering a unique and meditative experience for viewers.
The Very Many, led by Fournes, has a website where more information about their work and projects can be found. The commission for The Orb was awarded to them in 2018, showcasing their innovative approach to design and architecture. The pavilion’s twisting, organic forms and acrobatic surface provide a visually captivating experience for visitors, aiming to create a moment of connection and reflection in the midst of a tech-centric environment.
Overall, The Orb represents a successful collaboration between art and technology, offering a unique and immersive experience for those who encounter it at Google’s headquarters. Its innovative design and intricate structure make it a standout piece of architecture that blends seamlessly into the intersection of public and private space.
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https://www.wallpaper.com/architecture/google-the-orb-the-very-many-california-usa
