Land Tiles

Land Tiles is the outcome of the research and development of an emergent generation of contour-responsive erosion control and landscape consolidation systems that are highly integrated as well as environmentally sensitive. The temporary installation presents an articulated and contoured topography made of 144 concrete-cast and textured blocks manufactured through a process of CNC milling, vacuum-formed plastic molds, and concrete casting. The process involves digitally double-pleating a continuous surface and subdividing it to produce individual compartments; 118 are unique. The inherent complexity of contoured terrain instigates a dimensional logic of construction so that, through a process of subdivision, each tile can adjust to site-specific conditions while maintaining its prototypical geometry and morphological qualities.

Aiming to manufacture an actively effective landscape micro-environment, the installation includes a circuitry of continuous water flow, which stimulates severe and shifting conditions within the tectonic landscape in contrast with a series of fine furrows of growing grass. The project’s duration of six months allows the structural, surface, and vegetation conditions to be monitored over an extended period, thus inducing multiple and unanticipated material responses.