Brainstorm
Quarter scale mock up consisted of a wooden frame and canvas exterior.
The final design, constructed from corrugated plastic and PET, is durable yet lightweight. It is environmentally friendly and a good heat and sound insulator, making it accessible throughout the year.
The modular quality of the walls allows variation in how the shelter is assembled.
The accordion fold adds structural stability and makes the design easily transportable. Each partition is disassemblable.
Placing the Plant Oasis along Nicollet Mall would allow working adults to take a break from their day. This quiet shelter would help to relieve stress and increase productivity.
Interior
gLike
Portable Plant Oasis

Architecture on the Go
Instructor: Bruce Wright
Spring 2016
Collaboration with Nhi Nguyen and Keaton Nemes

After investigating and researching various examples of portable structures and the materials used to build them an 8’ x 5’ x 7’ greenhouse was designed. Intended as an individually used space, the Plant Oasis reestablishes a connection to nature in urban settings, addressing biophilia and serving as a haven from fast paced life in the city. With the requirement of portability, various origami forms were explored. A simple accordion fold led to a structure made from corrugated plastic and PET glazing.

Emma Norden
Undergraduate Architecture Student Minneapolis, MN