Case Study #4: Powerplant

Architect: realities:united
Location: Pasadena, California
Year: 2005
Status: On hold
Client: City of Pasadena

Superimposing the remains of the old industries with a new, light and intelligent structure which bridges the gap between industry, nature and information technology, a new breed of Powerplants is spreading around the Glenarm Innovation Corridor in Pasadena, California.

Started in 2005 and currently on hold, this project includes slender stalks that reach about 55 feet into the sky, the same height as the famed palm trees of Southern California. Topped by a cylindrical light tube, the Powerplants sway gently in the air, emitting soft light signals powered by solar energy, stored during daytime. A multipart 2 phase stacked tube structure allows movements powered just by a light breeze and yet is strong enough to withstand storm and earth quakes.

Connected to each other via a wireless information grid, the Powerplants are programmed to exchange light impulses, create abstract light configurations or glow in unison. All Powerplants are physically independent from each other and electrically self-sustainable, without the need for wiring or other peripheral infrastructure. They can be “planted” and “replanted” in any given sequence and arrangement.