Branch Museum of Design
2025-2026Dr. Ramtin Haghnazar
Yasaman Ashjazadeh, Design Research Ph.D. Candidate
Braden Perryman, M.F.A., Design Research Ph.D. Candidate
Project goal:
Create a public sculpture for the Branch Museum of Design in Richmond, VA.
The Technique:
Computer aided design in Rhino+Grasshopper
Digital fabrication using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Mill
Artist Statement:
This project aims to develop and validate an integrated digital design and assembly workflow for freeform lightweight metal structures. By combining parametric design, digital fabrication, and augmented reality–assisted construction within a unified digital twin, the research addresses the challenge of translating complex computational geometries into buildable assemblies. The workflow will be experimentally evaluated through motion capture–based analysis of untrained participants to assess assembly performance, efficiency, and safety, and will be demonstrated through a full-scale temporary installation at the Branch Museum of Design serving as both a research prototype and public exhibition. Primary outcomes include a documented digital workflow, the completed installation, and a peer-reviewed publication establishing a foundation for future research on freeform metal façade panels and building envelope systems.
Project Updates:
Design and prototying is underway with the final installation planned for March of 2027.
Acknowledgements:
Special thanks to the Virginia Tech Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology for their sponsorship of this project.