Metaphotonic treePOD

The InTREEguing Treehouses exhibition at Reiman Gardens at Iowa State University provided an opportunity to create a unique self supporting architectural tree structure that help foster the creative minds of our next generation. As a team we were inspired by the mission of the Garden to educate, enchant, and inspire an appreciation of plants, butterflies, and the beauty of the natural world.

These visions lead us to the research and inspiration of the life, anatomy and transformational experiences that certain butterfly species undergo. The Metaphotonic treePOD is not only inspired by the process of metamorphosis, but also by the structure of the cocoon and chrysalis, and the photonic character of microscopic scales that cover certain butterfly species wings. These wings contain nanostructures that change the way light waves reflect light and generate brilliant hues and intense colorations. In essence, certain butterfly species wings structures are not pigmented but rather they obtain their colors by manipulating light though their wing structures.

This artistic interpretation of nature’s architecture has served as a wonderful opportunity to embrace our communities through the power of art, architecture and design. For architecture to truly be considered significant we believe it’s not a matter of scale but on its ability to create memorable experiences for those who engage with it. I would like to honor the following companies that without their support we would have not been able to create this piece of art/architecture:

Curt Engelhardt-Team Member

Sponsors:
• Lowe`s
• Kreg Tool Company
• G.C. Woodworking
• Raker Rhodes Engineering
• McClanahan Studio
• RDG Planning & Desing
• Sargent Metal Fabricating
• Beeline + Blue
• Premier Powder Coating
• Liberty Hardwood.