The HygroSkin Observatory is an environmentally responsive construct that explores the complex relationship between timber and moisture. Timber is a hygroscopic material – its innate ‘living’ ability to constantly equalise its moisture levels with the surrounding environment results in the continuous transformation of its shape and form. This condition has long been stigmatised in industrial practice. In contrast, this construct celebrates the phenomenon through observation and scientific data conveyance.

The hygroscopically actuated skin is comprised of bi-layer timber veneer components that vary relative to the panel’s cut pattern, both in species and in grain orientation. The veneer panels are mounted onto a bespoke structural timber frame that explores various glue lamination strategies, joinery methods, and CNC milling fabrication.

Observers seated within the cockpit-like structure are immersed in the semi-exposed environment. They can observe current weather conditions portrayed by the shape of the actuated timber skin. For rapid actuation of the skin, an ultrasonic misting system can be triggered manually, and sensors are detecting low humidity or timber deflection.

Long-term movement of the timber skin is captured by a rotating camera on the exterior and data-collecting sensors in the interior. Both observation techniques are combined and conveyed through graphic visualisation on a digital screen visible to observers inside the structure.