Tool or Weapon

ARCH 5111  Core Design Studio I 
Co-Habitat - Around Form and Environment

Instructors: Katharina Kral & Martha H. Wisniewska
Partner: Yue Yu (for Part I and II)

Cornell University Department of Architecture | Fall 2022

Tool & Weapon is a comprehensive project that focuses on the endangered species Woodland Caribou.

Each stage of the tripartite project represents a different aspect of the animal’s nature, grounded in extensive research and environmental analysis. These insights are translated into dynamic 3D forms at various scales to educate, celebrate, and protect the animal, emphasizing the importance of its role in the ecosystem.

Part I Biosphere: 
A conceptual biosphere designed based on the antler’s tool feature

Part II Pavilion:
Translation into an expressive viewing pavilion

Part III Architecture:
An animal sanctuary designed in the form of sharp antlers stands as a bold statement piece, symbolizing resilience and resistance against climate change and habitat destruction.




Part I - Biosphere

Form Abstraction


Design Thermal Formed Acrylic


Part II - Pavilion









Part III - Architecture