M-Velope
The M-Velope is an interactive functional art structure, which among other things, can be used as a meditation space, a garden retreat, a shade house, a party pavilion, and as a place to do yoga.
It has a strong painted steel frame, onto which are hinged wood slatted panels. The slatted panels are made of a new wood product called Accoya. Accoya* lumber is made from sustainably grown forests, and it is treated with a non-toxic process that gives the wood a 50-year life above ground.
The shape of the M-Velope can be changed by moving the slatted wood panels into various positions, within the frame. This shape shifting not only alters the aesthetics of the structure, but it also alters the light quality and the opacity of the space.
Benches on the inside of the structure can comfortably seat eight people or they can be used as beds for two people. These benches can be removed to allow for a much larger unobstructed floor area.
In many cases, the M-Velope may not need a foundation or a building permit. Fully opened, the structure is approximately 15 feet high, 14 feet wide, and 17 feet deep. The actual ground contact area is 8 feet square, and is supported at four corners. Two 45 inch, by 96 inch ramps provide access to the structure from two sides.
The M-Velope, an Interactive Functional Art Structure
(A limited addition of 10)
Designed by Michael Jantzen Exclusively for Neiman Marcus
for the 2008 Christmas Fantasy Gift Collection
Questions and Answers:
Q - What is it?
A - An interactive functional art structure called, the M-velope.
Q - What is its function?
A - Among other things, it can be used as a meditation space, a garden retreat, a shade house, a party pavilion, and/or as a place to do yoga.
Q - What is it made of?
A - The M-velope has a very strong painted steel frame, onto which wood slatted panels are attached with hinges. The wood panels are constructed from a new wood product called, Accoya. Accoya is made from sustainably grown trees. The lumber has been treated in a non-toxic environmentally friendly way, so that it has a 50-year life, above ground.
Q - What are the dimensions?
A - Fully extended, the M-velope is 15 feet high, 14 feet wide, and 17 feet deep.
Q - How can its shape be changed?
A - All of the wood slatted cladding panels are hinged to the painted steel frame. The shape of the structure can be changed by opening and/or closing each of the panels in different ways. The panels are secured to the frame with bolts to hold them safely in the desired position.
Q - Does the shape shifting of the structure have a function beyond aesthetics?
A - Yes, as the panels are opened and closed in different combinations, more or less light is allowed into the space, along with more or less airflow. The transformation of the M-velope also alters the view from the inside out, and from the outside in.
Q - How long would it take to get one?
A - Up to three months.
Q - Does it need a foundation?
A - In many cases it does not, but you will have to check with an engineer to evaluate your site-specific requirements.
Q - Does it need a building permit?
A - In many cases it does not, but you would have to check your local building codes.
Q - Has the M-velope been engineered?
A - Yes it has been structurally engineered.
Q - How would it be shipped?
A - The painted steel frame would be shipped in two pieces, and each of the slatted panels would be shipped flat, detached from the frame, but in the same container.
Q - Who pays for shipping and installation?
A - The buyer of the M-velope, but we have several sources for the shipping and installation.
Q - Where can I get more information on the Accoya wood product?
A - www.accoya.info and www.titanwood.com
Q - Where can I get more information on the designer of the M_velope?
*Accoya® is an all-natural solid wood which has properties that surpass those of the best tropical hardwoods and other threatened naturally durable species. It is produced using a non-toxic process with fast-growing woods from sustainably grown and certified sources. Other wood treatments typically insert toxic chemicals (such as heavy metals) into the cell walls of the wood that often leach out. Accoya® wood, due to its extended 50 year life, also acts as a very effective carbon sink.
Michael Jantzen is an internationally known designer/artist whose work has been featured in hundreds of articles in books, magazines, and newspapers, from around the world. His work has also been featured on various TV and radio programs, and shown in many galleries. Some of his designs have been exhibited at the National Building Museum, the Canadian Center for Architecture, and at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Most of his work merges art, architecture, technology, and sustainable design, into one unique experience.