ppuzzl.works

Chromatic Sequences

A collection of interlocking puzzle designs exploring color theory through physical play. Each piece carries a unique chromatic value, creating gradients when assembled correctly. The series bridges fine art and tactile interaction, inviting solvers to compose visual harmony through spatial reasoning.

The Chromatic Sequences project began as an exploration into how color perception changes through physical arrangement. Working with custom-dyed birch plywood, each puzzle piece was assigned a specific hue based on the Munsell color system. The manufacturing process involved laser cutting with 0.1mm tolerances to ensure seamless interlocking. Three editions were produced: Dawn (warm spectrum), Dusk (cool spectrum), and Solstice (full gamut). Each edition contains 200 pieces and measures 60cm square when assembled.

Topographic Layers

A dimensional puzzle series inspired by contour mapping. Stacked acrylic layers reveal elevation data from real-world terrain when assembled in the correct order. Each puzzle doubles as a sculptural object and a geographic study, blurring the line between art, science, and play.

Topographic Layers draws from USGS elevation data, translated into stackable acrylic sheets of varying thickness. The first release mapped Mount Tamalpais at 1:25000 scale across 12 layers. Each layer is precision-cut from optical-grade acrylic in graduated earth tones. When stacked, a three-dimensional relief emerges. The project was exhibited at the San Francisco Museum of Craft and Design before its limited commercial release. Future editions will map underwater topographies and lunar surfaces.

Selected Works

2024 — Print

Tessellation Studies

A risograph print series exploring Penrose tilings and aperiodic tessellations. Printed in three-color overlays on Mohawk Superfine paper.

Each print in the Tessellation Studies series begins as a generative algorithm that produces unique aperiodic patterns. These are translated to two-color risograph separations, with a third metallic overlay added by hand. The series explores the mathematical beauty of non-repeating patterns -- forms that tile a plane without ever settling into periodicity.

2023 — Object

Cipher Box

A mechanical puzzle box requiring a sequence of 14 moves to open. Constructed from walnut and brass with hidden magnetic locks.

The Cipher Box was designed as a meditation on patience and sequential thinking. Its mechanism uses rare-earth magnets concealed within walnut panels, requiring the solver to discover and execute a precise choreography of slides, rotations, and pressure points. Commissioned for a private collector.

2023 — Digital

Gridlock

A browser-based spatial reasoning game built on constraint propagation. Minimal interface, infinite procedurally generated levels.

Gridlock strips the puzzle game to its essential logic. No timers, no scores -- just an expanding grid of constraints that the player must satisfy through spatial arrangement. The generator guarantees exactly one solution per level, verified through backtracking search.

2022 — Installation

The Infinite Room

A room-scale installation where visitors rearrange mirrored panels to create kaleidoscopic spaces. Exhibited at the Museum of Play, Rochester.

The Infinite Room transforms visitors into puzzle solvers operating at architectural scale. Twelve freestanding mirrored panels on casters can be arranged in any configuration within a 6m square space. Each arrangement produces a unique visual environment through infinite reflections. The installation ran for eight months and was experienced by over 40,000 visitors.