The Orb, designed by Marc Fornes of The Very Many, serves as a striking architectural centerpiece at this confidential technology campus in Mountain View, California. This 10-meter-tall pavilion, crafted from an ultra-thin, self-supported aluminum shell, features intricate folds and tiny perforations that create a dynamic play of light and shadow. The innovative design is elevated by a lighting scheme that blends natural and artificial light to enhance the structure’s visual and structural complexity.
The lighting design seamlessly integrates with The Orb’s perforated surfaces, emphasizing its organic, twisting shapes. During the day, sunlight filters through the perforations, casting intricate patterns on the ground and within the pavilion, accentuating its fluid form. As night falls, strategically placed LED lights illuminate the structure, highlighting its contours and turning The Orb into a luminous landmark. These lights trace the folds and curves, transforming the pavilion into a glowing beacon that draws attention from all angles.
The lighting not only enhances the architectural beauty of The Orb but creates a memorable experience for viewers, reflecting innovation, artistry, and technology. The interplay of sunlight and LEDs brings out the unique textures and shapes, making The Orb a dynamic focal point both day and night.
