Name: Gravityform
Professional definition:
Gravityform is a structural design principle developed by Mikel Gorroño that describes a phenomenon of controlled deformation in wooden structures , in which gravity , combined with deliberate and calculated design , generates an organic curvature . This deliberate transformation contributes to a unique and dynamic aesthetic, while balancing the natural tension of the material with its structural functionality, resulting in elegant, efficient and visually distinctive forms.
Gravityform Applications
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Sculptural furniture: lamps and structures that feature complex curvatures obtained by the weight of the material itself during assembly or after controlled release processes.
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Architectural installations: lightweight domes where deformation is calculated to achieve shapes that flow with the surroundings.
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Exclusive product design: objects that stand out for their uniqueness, born from guided natural deformation, not replicable in rigid industrial processes.
Gravitiform Lamps
The lamps designed by Mikel Gorroño fit perfectly into the Gravitiform concept. They are more than just luminaires: they represent a naturalistic sculptural expression. They include:
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Parametric design , with modulation and repetition of elements.
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Interaction with gravity , where the final shape suggests that gravity “does its part.”
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Natural torsion of the wood , enhanced by its cutting and assembly.
This approach creates a result that appears alive, moving and organic , as if the lamps were suspended organisms that have formed on their own.
Inspirations and foundations
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Biomimicry : Like branches, leaves, or bones, pieces created with Gravityform find their shape from a structural need, not just an aesthetic one.
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Natural engineering : similar to the catenary principle in structures such as Gaudí's arch, Gravityform explores the point at which gravity becomes an ally of design.
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Organic geometry + structural mathematics : the method relies on calculations of deformation, modulus of elasticity and load distribution to anticipate the final result of the shape.
Possible paths for further study
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Bioinspiration : Studying how natural structures (leaves, shells, skeletons, insect wings) adapt to forces. Incorporating these patterns directly into your design.
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Combined physical and digital modeling : complement the manual process with gravity and stress simulations in software such as Rhino/Grasshopper or Fusion with analysis modules.
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Poetics of Deformation : exploring narratives in which the lamp "folds, surrenders, and forms" under gravity. Useful for commercial, exhibition, or gallery texts.
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Curvature as Soul : Explore the idea that curvature is what gives an object its "soul." What happens if the curvature is minimal? What if it's extreme? Explore structural and aesthetic limits.
Technical Application: Gravitiform Foundation
Gravitiform's behavior is based on precise structural calculations. Instead of forcing the shape, its final curvature is predicted using the material's mechanical properties and load distribution. This approach unites organic aesthetics with structural engineering.
1. Mathematical foundations
Deformation equation of a beam under distributed load:
y(x) = [w·x·(L³ − 2·L·x² + x³)] / (24·E·I)
Maximum expected deflection:
y_max = (5·w·L⁴) / (384·E·I)
Where:
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w : distributed load (N/m)
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L : length of the piece (m)
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E : modulus of elasticity of the material (Pa)
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I : moment of inertia of the section (m⁴)
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y(x) : vertical deformation along the longitudinal axis
2. Gravitiform Interpretation
The resulting curvature is not an arbitrary aesthetic choice: it emerges as a direct consequence of structural balance. It starts from a linear geometry that, subjected to natural loads and respecting material parameters, evolves toward a final organic and functional form.
3. Application in design
This principle allows us to design:
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Furniture and lamps whose shape is defined by their own physical behavior.
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Curved structures that adapt to actual stress, avoiding over-engineering.
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Unique pieces, where controlled deformation generates aesthetic and technical value.