PROJECTS

Endemic Synthetic

Drawing attention to the impact of the construction industry waste stream

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

A mobile structure fabricated with reclaimed PVC pipe, reflects biophilic patterns from the surrounding natural environment, drawing attention to the impact of the construction industry waste stream.

DESIGNED FOR

Endemic Synthetic was designed for the “Ecoshack Green Tent Design Competition”. The international design competition sought designs for off-the-grid, temporary shelters for the Mojave Desert.

IMPACT

Design Competition Winner: 1 of 3 winning entries out of 101 entries.

Mentioned in: Chicago Tribune, Entre Rayas Magazine

Exhibited at: HDTS High Desert Test Sites 4, Joshua Tree, CA
“Green Tents” exhibit by Stephanie Smith, Ecoshack, October 23-24, 2004. Art Center College of Design, Pasadena, CA
“Green Tent” installation by Ecoshack at the gardenLAb experiment curated by Fritz Haeg, September 7 - October 16, 2004.


SECOND LIFE

The short-term nature of a temporary shelter implies waste. PVC pipe has an almost indefinite lifespan, yet this part of America's waste stream is rarely recycled.

This adaptable pavilion is constructed of reclaimed PVC pipes. The voids in the pipes provide for air circulation, insulation and storage space for camping gear and personal electronics.


ROOF OASIS / NIGHT BLOOM

The operable, wing-like roof can be opened at night to allow for sleeping bag stargazing.

An off-the-shelf, flexible photovoltaic panel can be used to re-charge your phone and run the low-voltage L.E.D. lighting at night.


STUFF INSULATION

The re-purposed PVC pipe forms a structure that can adapt to the bioclimatic extremes of the Mojave Desert, where temperatures fluctuate from 0°F to over 120°F.

The PVC tubes act as integral storage compartments for camping gear, integral seating and provide ventilation in the desert heat. Low-tech, retractable canvas panels block winter winds and provide privacy.


COMMUNAL CAMP

Geometric group configurations form a modern campfire glow.

Clusters of the shelters can accommodate different sized parties, while being organized to support desired activities. Operable fabric panels provide both privacy and insulation. 


Competition Jury 
David Erman, Designer, founder of servo and davidclovers
Stephen Kinder, Graphic Designer, Stephen Kinder Design Partnership
Stephanie Smith, Architect, founder of JT Homesteader
Andrea Zittel, Artist
Christopher James, Artist

Project Type
Architectural Design for the Ecoshack Green Tent Design Competition.
 

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