RIBA’s brief for the competition: "The challenging target of an 80% reduction in carbon emissions by 2050, means substantial change in our energy infrastructure [...] We are therefore seeking highly innovative and imaginative solutions that nevertheless respond to the exacting technical requirements and offer the potential for development into deliverable projects. Proposals should be both grounded in reality and be beautiful. This network of pylons and cables has the potential to transform our landscapes for good or bad, and for generations to come.” In close collaboration with MAUC and Ramboll group, we proposed a new design for the electricity pylon in response to the realisation that a shift towards electricity from sustainable energy sources implies a new energy infrastructure. We therefore thought it would be wise to re-think the design of the pylon, as the energy distribution network originates from a different location.
Pylons are currently designed to follow a straight trajectory on a flat surface. Any deviation in either warrants a so-called "deviation tower". In the British landscape however, plotting a straight trajectory on the same height level is quite a challenge. And if successful the result is a straight line in a hill-scape at best (see image). We proposed a generative design that adapts itself to the landscape and a sinuous trajectory (see image). Instead of making the distinction between a "normal" tower and a "deviation" tower, we declared the deviation the norm as in the 21st century it is possible to create mass-customized solutions. Bespoke lattice structures are in fact the most suitable for such an approach as only the lengths of the members need to be customized. We designed a fluid structure to connect with the British landscape, which flows from horizon to horizon, sometimes calm and collected, sometimes wild and furious. Pylons negotiate the curves and flowing hills, carefully finding their balance and footing, dancing with a quiet exuberance across valleys. The tripod based footprint implies a direction, underlining the trajectory and minimizing the actual impact on the landscape, whilst the curved column and branches articulate a freedom and an animated silhouette.
Read more on MAUC's website here
