When the Sochi Winter Olympics kick off next month (Feb. 7-23) in Russia, the temporary pavilion for Russian telecom operator MegaFon is going to turn a lot of heads—literally.
The company commissioned London-based designer Asif Khan to create a one-of-a-kind installation for the Games. Khan answered with MegaFaces, a 39-foot-high, illuminated façade that acts much like a giant pin screen, replicating the faces of people in the crowd in the form of a 26-foot-high, 3D mural.
The kinetic façade will display three faces simultaneously, and each participant will receive a 20-second video clip of their experience via email.
Here's how it works, according to a report by Dezeen: People step into a 3D photo booth to have their face scanned from five different angles.
Using the data, a computer creates a 3D model of the facial structure (in about a minute) and sends the coordinates to an engine-and-cable system that controls a series of actuators that make up the kinetic portion of the façade. Each one of the 10,000 actuators can extend out to lengths of six feet, allowing for the creation of dramatic, 3D murals.
Don't believe us? See for yourself:
Related Stories
| Jun 23, 2014
Berlin House of One will accommodate Muslims, Jews, and Christians
The building will rise on the ruins of a 13th-century Christian church that was damaged during WWII and eventually demolished.
| Jun 22, 2014
5 ways to improve your firm’s branding efforts
Establishing, conveying, and maintaining a powerful brand is a critical component of an AEC firm’s marketing strategy. Here are five strategies to make a greater impact with your firm’s branding efforts.
Sponsored | | Jun 22, 2014
JW Marriott Indianapolis redefines city’s skyline
The 34-story JW Marriott is both the largest and tallest hotel in Indianapolis. One of the most prestigious hotels in the city, the JW Marriott has hosted celebrities and NFL teams alike.
| Jun 20, 2014
HOK releases proposal for Obama Library and Museum Campus
Proposal would locate the library in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood, aiming for urban revitalization as well as Living Building certification.
| Jun 20, 2014
Sterling Bay pulled on board for Chicago Old Main Post Office project
Sterling Bay Cos. and Bill Davies' International Property Developers North America partner up for a $500 million restoration of Chicago's Old Main Post Office
| Jun 20, 2014
First look: Hive-like 'Learning Hub' to be built in Singapore
In a competition to design a "Learning Hub" for students at Nanyang University in Singapore, London-based firm Heatherwick studio has won with a rounded, hive-like design.
| Jun 20, 2014
U.S. Energy Information Administration releases preliminary Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey results
Federal survey project shows that commercial-building floorspace has grown 22% since 2003; energy-use data will be released in Spring 2015.
| Jun 19, 2014
First Look: 10 Design unveils new luxury apartments plan in Dubai
The Seventh Heaven complex features a stepped form that will offer stunning views of the Dubai skyline.
| Jun 19, 2014
First look: JDS Architects' roller-coaster-like design for Istanbul waterfront development
The development's wavy and groovy design promises unobstructed views of the Marmara Sea for every unit.
| Jun 19, 2014
NCARB study: Architects getting licensed at younger age
A new report from NCARB shows that the median age of people at initial licensure is at a 10 year low.