Memory Koi

Structured as a continuous pool, the pond begins with a form that enhances the conceit of a man-made pond. Multiple heights serve to not only give it more sculptural form, but increase accessibility in an environment where many patients suffer temporary or long-term disability. Plants serve to not only give it an organic feel, but allow for greater scale while allowing koi to swim across more than 25ft of “pond” at extremely high resolution.

The koi themselves are designed to have a blend of both natural and magical qualities. With custom built AI the fish can be calm, excited, inquisitive, or scared. Behaviorally they pool, school, feed, swim under the plants magically transform with secret user inputs, and even deliver messages of encouragement to patients who may need it. Proximity detection around the pond allows it to “signal” the arrival of a visitor to the koi to respond to and cue interaction to facilitate both passive and active participation. For some patients, simply dragging their finger through the water and seeing the koi respond can be soothing and meditative. For others, a more substantial interaction with the koi and plants around them is more satisfying.

Finally, to create greater dynamism and magic, the pond environment itself evolves. Over the course of the day, the color and lighting changes to match the time until it slowly transfers to the dark cool tones of night. Throughout the year, it also transitions from the full foliage of summer to the ice, stone, and leafless trees of winter to always keep visitors engaged.