Lexicon

July 2026 Aluminum · 18 × 18 × 2 ft Alfonso Parra Rubio · Erik Strand MIT Center for Bits and Atoms

Lexicon is a free-form structural shell built from individual origami-folded cells assembled into a two-sided lattice, or interlocking framework. The folding and assembling process creates a structure that is as strong and rigid as typical building methods, but it is much lighter.

The structure is made for this space, Deferrari Hall. Its light, curved shape contrasts with the Boylston Street Building's heavy and blocky brutalist architecture.

Lexicon's three pointed shape is a reference to Rafael Guastavino's tiled ceilings in the Central Library's McKim Building. By bringing together influences from both of the Central Library's buildings, Lexicon celebrates the role of geometry in design and construction.

A collaboration between the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), the Boston Public Library (BPL), and the Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture (MOAC).

With Riccardo Foschi (University of Bologna), Rupert Malec (University of Innsbruck), Tomohiro Tachi (University of Tokyo), and Neil Gershenfeld (MIT Center for Bits and Atoms).

Made possible and funded by MOAC.