Location
Raleigh, NC
Size
90W x 30W in (228 x 96cm)
Materials
Gypsum, Wood
Weight
65 lbs. (29.5 kgs.)
I’m not just looking to fill a blank wall; I want something that transforms the space. I envision a piece that defines the room’s character while offering ambient lighting for those late nights in the observatory. It should captivate during the day, enchant in the evening, and leave an unforgettable impression on my guests.
At the outset of the project, it became evident that a horizontal aspect ratio would be ideal for defining the area above the seating space. After conducting detailed measurements and visiting the observatory during both day and night, I was able to carefully plan the terrain’s design. This involved balancing the placement of craters, cast shadows, and ambient light to create a visually cohesive and functional piece.
One key challenge was integrating the client’s existing downlights, positioned just below the lower ceiling. These lights provided subtle ambient illumination in the early morning and evening but introduced complexity when they were fully turned on. By considering both natural daylight and LED lighting dynamics, the design was fine-tuned to enhance the space’s aesthetics while accommodating these lighting conditions effectively.
The client envisioned a complex interplay of craters that would captivate and mesmerize viewers. To achieve this, we drew inspiration from the southern tip of the moon near the Maurolycus crater, a region rich with overlapping layers of ancient and newer craters.
Collaborating closely, we incorporated artistic liberties to craft a dynamic composition with five distinct focal points. These features invite the viewer to lose themselves in the intricate rills, ridges, and mountains of the lunar terrain, creating a design that is as mesmerizing as it is immersive.
