The globular ‘test’ or shell of the sea urchin, a member of the phylum Echinodermata, served as the model for the biophilic design. The ten-beamed structure of the tent reflects the five-fold symmetry that the urchin develops as it ages, known as pentamerism. Similar to the tubercules on an animal’s shell, portholes and doors are incorporated into the segments to provide access and light. A tensile membrane fabric that is tensioned with a cable at each foot covers the Spicules (or beams). Incorporating insulation between the segments will result in a thermally effective envelope.
The first series of 8 Urchins were built for the Wild Coast Tented Lodge’s kids’ quarters in Sri Lanka.
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