Leading Barcelona-based design and digital fabrication specialists Mediodesign have just completed their first project for Japanese architecture firm Toyo Ito and Associates. 

'Spiral Panel' is a twenty six metre long wall panel system developed and produced by MedioDesign for Toyo Ito's landmark Torres Fira hotel in Barcelona.

The digitally fabricated relief panels provide a distinctive curvaceous wall cladding for the Torres Fira Hotel restaurant interior, where abstract floral patterns echo the recurring themes of the interior and Ito's architectural design.

After a series of prototypes, and milling and production optimisation tests were carried out, the problems of installing large custom-made panels on an undulating, curved surface were resolved. Strategic machining of both panel faces provided maximum flexibility and adaptability.

The three dimensional front surface machining was also carefully programmed by Mediodesign to give a high quality finish for the silky white lacquer surface as specified. Innovative wall fixing systems developed for the design studio used sub-structures with high precision fixings and sealed expansion joints to overcome installation discrepancies and create the visual effect of a continuous and flowing wall surface.

The serenity and balance of the Spiral Panel artwork summarises in a single element the creative will and essence of Toyo Ito's architectural vision.

Click through to the end of the image gallery above to see some shots of the 'making of'.

Credits:

Hotel Torres Fira by Toyo Ito & Associates

Spiral Panel Design Toyo Ito & Associates

Design Consulting, fabrication and assembly Mediodesign 

Finishes Aplicaciones en Madera March Marsó

Photography Javier Tles