Harriet

The main features of the project are an open timber frame that draws its form from the tortoise shell, located above a faceted timber platform and accompanied by a sculptural tortoise head. The open nature of the shell affords multiple glimpses in and out - as well as interacting with the changing light of the day - to create an inclusive installation that can be enjoyed by all visitors. Accoya timber is the core material used throughout, with traditional carpentry techniques used to form with lower deck, accompanied by precision cut timber and lasercut metal plates to create the distinctive upper shell and the variety of bespoke joints that define its form. From the outset, the design process and manufacture focused on continuing the innovative practices that are showcased by prominent architectural commissions within the Regent Park site. A digital model of one of the Zoo's tortoises was made by How About Studio using photogrammetry, and formed a key reference as the non-regular structure was developed iteratively through physical workshop prototypes and parametric modelling. The project is enabled through a key connection detail within the shell was developed through prototyping, and achieve
hrough passing angle-cut timber lengths through a table saw to achieve a consistent central channel that could be engaged with a varying trio of metal joining plates to form a timber carapace. This alignment of digital and craft process required a developed understanding of tools, tolerances and assembly process, and allowed larger sections of shell to travel to site for efficient final installation