Forking Rooms, Fractal Cities

Abstract

<p>Recent explorations at the intersection of mathematics, computer graphics, and art present digital environments that challenge traditional flat, 3D space. They refresh the common understanding of the virtual world as a copy of reality and suggest a fluid space reminiscent of the early digital age’s dreams. In this regard, this study investigates the visualization of non-3D spatial experiences using point cloud, drawing on mathematical concepts such as non-Euclidean, fractal, and hyperdimensional geometries to envision a digital space with a transformable structure. This is demonstrated through two films, <em>Forking Rooms</em> and <em>Fractal Cities</em>.</p><p>The paper introduces the technical and architectural methods employed in the experiments. The project manipulates point clouds using procedural modeling with Blender geometry node, constructing spaces that can unfold, morph, and interconnect in relation to time or the spectator's location. It further proposes three spatial prototypes - portal, fractal, and tesseract - each exploring a specific topological condition that challenges a fundamental architectural concept: boundary, scale, and directionality. These prototypes serve as the vocabulary for storytelling and space-making in the production of the films.</p><p>This work serves as an examination of the medium, expanding the capabilities of point cloud and identifying potential design opportunities in the creation of virtual environments. By outlining a working method for designers and offering examples of its spatial and aesthetic qualities through film, the project discusses the possibility of designing non-3D space and imagines a virtual world with a dynamic spatial structure.</p>