UICA Mini-Golf Installation
Grand Rapids, Michigan

OVERVIEW

Our intention was to design a customizable modular floor panel system that can be utilized in any hard-floored gallery space the UICA provides and can be configured in a variety of paths. This system integrates sidewalls to keep the ball in play and “hazards” that would affect the ball’s trajectory and speed. The panel system would lie directly on the floor highlighting the indoor, temporal, customizable nature of the system – the antithesis of the outdoor, permanent, site-specific nature of golf.

 

MATERIALS

The panel system was constructed of ¼” MDF (medium density fiberboard) which will be sealed to ensure durability.

 

PANEL SYSTEM

Interlocking +/-17” square and triangular panels were laser cut. The precision of the laser cutter combined with modular panel shapes makes the system inherently customizable. The hole can be assembled quickly on site whatever the dimensions, restrictions, confinements, etc. Each panel integrates side walls to keep the ball in play.

 

HAZARDS

A variety of “hazards” were integrated into the panels using a reductive method. Lines/patterns cut into the panels would affect the ball trajectory and speed – and would reveal the gallery flooring below.

 

ASSEMBLY

The panels were laid on the gallery floor. The path can be reactive to the immediate surroundings (adjacent holes, existing architecture, etc) or it can be apathetic and stand alone. Panels can be easily replaced if damaged.