Photos © Philip Beesley

Philip Beesley Architect and University of Waterloo's School of Architecture will represent Canada at the 2010 Venice Biennale in Architecture with their interactive project.

"Hylozoic Ground" consists of interactive mechanical fronds, filters, and whiskers that sense and respond to humans.

Toronto-based Philip Beesley Architect and University of Waterloo's School of Architecture have collaborated on an interactive project that will represent Canada at the 2010 Venice Biennale's 12^th International Architecture Exhibition.

Exploring qualities of contemporary wilderness, "Hylozoic Ground" is a network of interactive mechanical fronds, filters, and whiskers that sense and respond to human occupants. The touch sensors and actuators create a breathing motion intended to draw visitors into the 'forest.'

Beesley told Construction Canada Online a wave of new industrial processes is transforming building design and construction. He said the next generation of architecture will be able to sense, change, and transform itself.

"Architecture can now be operated as an instrument," Beesley said. "Composite building structures now incorporate sensors, displays, and a range of mechanical functions much like what outfits a car today. Many of our actions trigger automatic responses in our environment. Buildings contain a myriad of sensors that detect temperature, humidity, light, fire, and many other parameters relevant to the operation of the facility and safety and comfort of their occupants."

Canada Council for the Arts selected a jury of three design professionals who chose the project to represent Canada at the Venice Biennale, which begins in September.