The Triptych
A Tribal Gathering Pavilion
As part of the “Tribal Gathering” brief at the Bartlett School of Architecture, our group conceptualised and created an interactive pavilion that celebrates communal creativity and sensory exploration.
The Triptych is a modular soundscape composed of three triangular instruments. Each module features three tensioned wires, a bridge, and a pedal, inviting guests to interact with it much like a bass. The act of plucking these wires produces resonant sounds that ripple between the three instruments, amplified both naturally by the pavilion’s geometry and through an integrated audio system of contact microphones and speakers.
To enhance the immersive experience, we introduced effects such as delay, echo, and reverb. These effects not only elevated the natural tones of the instruments but also evoked a sense of awe and curiosity, drawing participants into an interplay of sound and light. The synchronised lighting, reactive to the amplitude of each pluck, created a mesmerising atmosphere where technology became an invisible partner in the guests’ experimentation.
On exhibition day, the pavilion surpassed our expectations, becoming a hub of collective discovery. Visitors engaged with the instruments in unexpected ways, experimenting with sound and marveling at the fusion of design, acoustics, and interactivity. Following its success, The Triptych was re-exhibited at the Dulwich Picture Gallery as part of the Colour Palace Exhibition, further solidifying its role as a bridge between art, music, and architectural innovation - in partnership with the London Festival of Architecture 2019.
Tribal Gathering Exhibition
The Triptych - Playability
The Triptych - Disassembly
The Triptych - Timelapse
The Triptych
Designer Team
Ralf Saade
Leo Kauntz Moderini
Panagiota (Io) Grivea
Tahira Uddin
Marco Wu
Jessica Ho
Tamanna Abul
Credits
MEng Engineering and Architectural Design, Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL