2024 - The photochromatic light funnel

Designing a radiology department within the constraints of a narrow and elongated site presented unique challenges, particularly when the required rooms and facilities necessitated square spaces. Despite meticulous planning of these functional areas, the central atrium required an innovative solution to optimize its usability and aesthetic appeal. Positioned at the heart of the structure, the atrium serves as a bridge connecting adjacent development areas. To make the atrium an inviting and enjoyable space, two innovative techniques were merged to create an installation that maximizes natural light and disperses it in a colorful and efficient manner. This design leverages the interplay of light and materials to create a dynamic and soothing environment, significantly enhancing the space’s function.
At the very top of the atrium, a funnel-shaped structure faces the south to capture maximum sunlight. The mirror, strategically angled, reflects sunlight onto a central prism pipe. This reflective mechanism ensures that light is directed efficiently into the atrium, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. The prism pipe, made of cylindrical glass, facilitates internal reflections. As sunlight is reflected into the pipe, it travels down, producing a vibrant, glowing effect that enhances the atrium’s ambiance. Surrounding the prism pipe, acrylic sheets with photochromatic ink react to UV rays, changing color and adding a dynamic, colorful glow to the space. During the day, the segments of the installation react to UV light by changing from translucent white to various colors, depending on the intensity and position of the sunlight.
The installation acts as a passive shading device during the day, controlling the amount of light and heat entering the atrium, thus maintaining a comfortable environment below. At night, it transforms into a chandelier, using light collected by integrated photovoltaic cells during the day to illuminate the space. The installation’s appearance changes throughout the day due to the movement of the sun, ensuring a constantly evolving aesthetic that provides a unique visual experience at any given moment. This dynamic interplay of light creates a soothing environment for patients and their families, reducing stress and enhancing the overall experience.
Integrated photovoltaic cells collect solar energy during the day, which is then used to power the installation at night, promoting sustainability and energy efficiency. The use of photochromatic ink and acrylic sheets highlights the integration of eco-friendly materials in the design. This installation is one of the first to use photo-reactive technology at an architectural scale, demonstrating its potential in construction and design. The technology ensures that the installation continuously interacts with environmental elements, providing a dynamic and engaging visual display. Special software was developed to create the shapes and generate precise cutting schedules for the installation elements. The elements were automatically numbered and water jet cut, ensuring accuracy and ease of assembly.
The innovative design of the atrium in the radiology department combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, utilizing advanced technologies to create a space that is efficient in terms of light dispersion and shading, and visually stimulating and calming. By integrating a funnel top with a prism pipe and photochromatic acrylic sheets, the design achieves a balance between practical needs and emotional well-being, enhancing the overall environment of the radiology department. This project demonstrates how light can significantly enhance and upgrade the function of space. The interplay of natural light, reflective surfaces, and color-changing materials transforms the atrium into a dynamic and inviting area. The design not only meets the practical requirements of the space but also elevates the user experience by creating a visually engaging and stress-reducing environment. Through innovative use of light and technology, this atrium design stands as a testament to the profound impact that thoughtful design can have on the functionality and ambiance of a space.