Porous Stack

Discrete aggregation of cylindrical modules using WFC

by Myroslava Kudelia & Olha Kozachenko, Kharkiv School of Architecture, 2025

Tutor: Anton Klyshnia

Porous Stack explores discrete aggregation through cylindrical modules assembled using Wave Function Collapse. Developed as part of the Discrete Aggregations course at the Kharkiv School of Architecture, the project uses Monoceros to generate compositions that range from compact clusters to elongated towers and sprawling horizontal formations - all from the same set of modules and rules.

The module system consists of cylinders of varying diameters and heights, color-coded by function. Adjacency rules govern how modules connect - which sizes can stack, which can sit side by side and where transitions occur. The WFC solver produces unexpected yet structurally coherent arrangements, with each configuration expressing a different spatial character while maintaining the porosity that gives the project its name.

The digital aggregations were verified through physical models built from painted cardboard tubes, then activated as ikebana vessels with dried flowers - a deliberate translation from rule-based geometry to lived material object. The result is an ikebana-like language of stacked volumes, where computational rules and material intuition converge.

Module catalogue showing cylindrical elements

Digital aggregation studies

Tall tower configuration in pink, blue and orange Color-coded aggregation showing module functions Long horizontal aggregation - alternative configurations
Adjacency rules for cylindrical module connections Compact cluster configuration
Design process from modules to final aggregation
Ikebana and tubes - module-to-vessel translation Process sketch and diagram

Process animations

WFC aggregation process Alternative aggregation animation
Module rotation study Module variation study
Final aggregation reveal

Physical model

Physical model in blue and pink cardboard tubes Physical model with dried flowers - ikebana arrangement
Workshop view - tubes being prepared Physical model close-up
Physical model alternative angle Physical model side view
Physical model perspective Physical model arrangement detail
Physical model - cylindrical stack composition Physical model with botanical elements
Physical model overview Physical model variation
Physical model with dried botanicals Physical model final composition