POLYMORPHIC BENCH
NEW YORK NY
URBAN FURNITURE
2011
Polymorphic is a kinetic and interactive installation utilizing an innovative design and engineering solution inspired by the simple kinetic action of a see-saw and the reverberating motion of a Slinky. With a series of 119 unique and interconnected sections, a simple central pivot and bolt system allows the vertical movement of one section to be picked up by others down the line. Together, this motion allows the installation to transform from a series of leveled sections into an undulating form activated through interaction with its occupants.
While the overall form of the bench is a continuous landscape, each seating condition was designed according to existing ergonomic profiles in order to maximize comfort and functionality. The bench conforms to the postures of the occupants by using simply their weight as a point of activation for the movement of the sections. A series of internal notches linked together by elastic bands and reinforced by couplings located on the central pivot rods prevent lateral movement and ensures safety during motion.
Eliza, along with a group of colleagues, designed, prototyped and fabricated Polymorphic Bench at Columbia GSAPP.