Layouts for curvilinear membranes differ from conventional plans. Here a line on paper represents three separate events: a division of space in either one of three elevations (the floor, the ceiling, the vertical wall); the position of a rigid runner (or point) to which edges of a fabric panel are to be attached; and the presence of a supporting surface to which the runner is to be affixed. When drawing the floor plan one thinks as an architect, taking into consideration all practical and functional matters. When laying out the ceiling plan one thinks like a sculptor, visualizing a membrane rising from the base line & leaning out or in as it reaches for the ceiling attachment; or swinging away, around, or toward some existing fixture or another membrane; thereby either opening up space above, or closing off the ceiling.
Note: A curve needs distance to develop and maximize its sculptural expression.
A membrane's configuration is conditioned by:
