Forum 64

Cecil Balmond

Cecil Balmond has transformed the role of the engineer in contemporary architecture with his unorthodox and visionary approach that challenges staid definitions of architecture and engineering. Forum 64 features his work H_edge, which consists of approximately 6,000 aluminum plates suspended between rigid stainless steel chains. What appears to hang like metallic ivy is revealed on closer inspection to stand from the floor. This “trick” allows for H_edge segments to turn at will and create a mazelike structure that is surprisingly sturdy. Interstitial gaps offer intriguing glimpses through a structure further animated by light and reflections. H_edge is supplemented by a suite of lightboxes that illustrate the principles used by Balmond to structure many of today's most innovative buildings.