Braiding, Weaving and Bifurcations…
This semesters studio is focused on the idea of tangled structures—massively distributed networks made up of relatively weak cross-linked fibrous components that are the dominant mode of formation of structures in nature. This elegant concept of material assembly follows a long lineage in architectural history, from gothic interweaving to Art Nouveau braiding; textile techniques from two- to three-dimensional weaving (Miyake, Northsails); Fine Arts from Pollack to Eliasson; Mathematics from topology to tangle theory; and science from advanced composites to tissue engineering demonstrate the omnipresence of this concept of matter assembly. A crucial characteristic of this structural morphology is that patterning, form, and organization are an inherent conditions emerging out of the design process. The studio projects will explore in depth the aesthetics and performative parameters of tangled and patterned surface conditions as an alternative to prevailing assembly strategies in a contemporary design environment, using the most advanced digital design tools and computer controlled fabrication methods, such as 3D printers and Laser Cutters. Design research is conducted into the architectural potential for this idea in the context of advanced engineering and contemporary construction methods.
The main task of the studio is to explore braiding, weaving and bifurcations as design tools for urban scale structures. The site and program for these explorations is the Expo 2012 in Yeosu, Korea. The site offers the opportunity to work on distributed, tangled networks along the coastline of the Expo Project. All the necessary data, such as plans and information about the site will be available from the studio master. Due to the size of the project group work is encouraged, limited to a maximum group size of 3 students.
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