# Light-Filtering Architecture This Entrium Cloud Canopy Filters Daylight and Engages Passers-By By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2014-09-08 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cloud-canopy References: [designboom](http://www.designboom.com/architecture/faulders-studio-entrium-light-cloud-portland-state-09-08-2014/) & [faulders-studio](http://faulders-studio.com/) Faulders Studio has designed a unique cloud canopy structure to shade the main entrance of [Portland State University's](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portland-house-renovation) science, research and teaching center. Dubbed 'Entrium Light Cloud'. the structure is designed as a collection of [curving aluminum fins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/a-capsule-in-time) that filter daylight and help maintain a bright and open area below. The cloud canopy structure's contours are blended with circular focal point geometry to create a pattern reminiscent of "vectorial weather flows, topographical contours, wave oscillations and amorphous cellular clusters," as described by California-=based architect Thom Faulders. The sculpture aims to grab the attention of students, faculty and public visitors, sparking engagement while also creating a space that links the intellectual hive of activity inside the building with the outside world. The canopy produces a subtle reflective glow when the skies are overcast and crisp shadow patterns on sunlit days. Photo Credits: [designboom](http://www.designboom.com/architecture/faulders-studio-entrium-light-cloud-portland-state-09-08-2014/), [faulders-studio](http://faulders-studio.com/) ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.0/10 - Popularity: 39% | Activity: 13% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Architecture](https://www.trendhunter.com/architecture) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Light-filtering Architecture:** The use of lightweight, innovative materials and technologies to filter natural light and improve the efficiency of energy usage in buildings. - **Engagement-driven Structures:** The creation of structures that engage and connect people to the spaces they occupy, sparking interest and conversation. - **Nature-inspired Design:** Designs that harmoniously incorporate natural elements in their shapes and materials to create an immersive experience for the observer. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture and Construction:** With a focus on sustainability, beauty and efficiency, architecture and construction have a prime opportunity to apply innovative materials and shape structures that are both visually and functionally appealing. - **Public Art and Design:** Art in public spaces can now leverage technology and innovative materials to produce designs with both a functional purpose and emotive impact that captivate and engage in equal measure. - **Interior Design:** With innovative lighting technologies and decorative materials becoming more accessible and affordable, interior designers can use nature-inspired, engagement-driven design elements in exciting new ways. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Light Filtered Glulam Pavilions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paviljong-rosendal.md) - [Bamboo Parasol Community Canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tapmi-center.md) - [Expansive School Bamboo Canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/talaricheruvu-rural-school.md) - [Expansive Airport Roof Canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/portland-airport.md) - [Ethereal Mesh Canopy Cafes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cs-somme-cafe.md) - [Suspended Lighting Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/suspended-lighting-installation.md) - [Illuminated Seated Chamber Skylights](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/leading-skyspace.md) - [Dynamic Wavy Steel Canopies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cheung-sha-wan-pier-canopy.md) - [Tree-Inspired Panelled Workspaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hood-design-studio.md)