Magnolia Moskun

Stone in Motion

This thesis is a stone architecture in constant motion. I work with found stone in states of precarity, extracting discrete and sometimes surprising functions from each individual rock. Construction relies on physical forces by avoiding standardized building materials and methods,

Uncertainty is inherent. The builder is a perpetual novice, open to unexpected outcomes. Working with irregular stone takes incredible precision that can’t be entirely planned or designed. It is an inquiry into the deep physical understanding that can only be gained through hands-on work. This architecture challenges the apathy to consequence latent in design with degrees of separation. 

The project charts a journey up the face of Mount Washington. A series of three structures provide space to prepare, to rest and to research. The character of the stone matches the character of the mountain. Rockfall debris, boulders, and bedrock generate divergent constructions. Precarity increases as we climb towards the summit, approaching the limit of equilibrium.

Basecamp
Charcoal on paper
24" x 36"

The mountain builds the walls with rockfall debris

Shelter on mountain face
Charcoal on paper
24" x 36"

Massive boulders propped up by a field of thin wood posts.

Experiments with forces and gravity
Rock, wood and string.

A kinetic system in equilibrium
Rock, wood, and rope
18" x 18" x 8'

A massive anchor, bracing stones, and hanging rocks hold wood beams in place without fasteners.

Testing forces

Finding equilibrium with rocks, string, and sticks.

Observation tower at the summit. A floating rock in equilibrium. 
Charcoal on paper
 24" x 36"

Rock, wood, and string.

Process model of observation tower at summit. Forces balance and find equilibrium. 

Wood sticks held in compression and string used to suspend hanging rocks allude floor and wall. The beginnings of an architecture.