I was trying to push the boundaries of what was possible. I liked the leaf design because it physically divided up the rotation of harvesting plants and the gaps could possibly be loading docks where smaller ships could come in to get more food. There was lots of potential which I brought back to my original design.
This detour also helped me understand better especially about circulation. It was difficult to move from one leaf to another. By stepping out, lift placement was difficult. Sun access was also an issue.
Jane and others also noted how it was important to make sure the design would float and that it looked like it had direction.
I took all these opportunities and issues, pared back the design and worked with something more cohesive and workable in the end. Thank you Jane. It was hard to let go but I did it :)