Installation Initiative
The Architectural Installation initiative is an annual or biannual student design-build program developed in collaboration with the University of Waterloo School of Architecture. Open to architecture students, it brings public art and community engagement into the Gaslight District through the creation of site-specific installations exhibited in a public urban setting.
Supported by academic and fabrication resources, students move from concept to full-scale construction, culminating in a juried selection and multi-month exhibition. The program supports emerging designers and activates public space through evolving installations sustained by community partnership and sponsorship.
CALLING FOR SPONSORSHIP!
Contributions directly fund materials and programming, with recognition opportunities available through exhibition materials and communications in collaboration with Fabrik Architects.
If you would like to support the next generation of designers and the installation initiative, please reach out to theforum@fabrikarchitects.ca
Lead Sponsors:
Collaborators:
01
KONA
KONA is an interactive installation designed by third-year students Avery Ross and Megan Sobkowich from the University of Waterloo School of Architecture.
Developed through computational prototyping and physical modeling, the project draws from natural systems to investigate modularity, movement, and light. Inspired by the biological behavior of the pinecone, KONA abstracts kinetic opening and closing mechanisms and radial organization into a responsive architectural structure.
The installation consists of an eight-foot CNC-milled circular frame fitted with a series of internal plywood hinges. Lightweight iridescent vinyl modules are attached to these hinges, folding and unfolding in relation to their movement to amplify light, reflection, and spatial depth.
Integrated LED lighting animates the structure, producing shifting visual effects that emphasize translucency, rhythm, and layered perception.
Through the integration of computational design, digital fabrication, and hands-on assembly, KONA demonstrates how natural systems can be translated into adaptable architectural form—bringing light, motion, and spatial dynamism to Cambridge’s Gaslight District.
MEET THE DESIGNERS
News Article
Megan Sobkowich
Avery Ross
02
BLOOM
BLOOM is a kinetic light installation inspired by the moonflower, a nocturnal plant that opens at dusk and closes at dawn. Through layered materials, subtle motion, and shifting transparency, the installation transforms continuously between day and night, creating a calm, immersive environment that connects interior and exterior spaces through light and movement. BLOOM will be on exhibit in the Forum at Fabrik in Summer 2026.
CALLING FOR SPONSORSHIP
MEET THE DESIGNERS
Kate Cumming
Kaela Gurdon