The students and researchers at the University of Stuttgart's Institute for Computational Design and Institute of Building Structures and Structural Design create the Hybrid Flax Pavilion and Wangen Tower. It is all crafted for a garden shoe in Wangen Im Allgau and it is defined by warped self-shaping timber and woven flax. This experimental approach to design are a part of the school's research contributing to bio-based and bio-themed construction.
The head of ITKE, Jan Knippers speaks to Dezeen about the design process, stating "The goal of this novel hybrid building system is to achieve expansive column-free space while minimising material usage, thus leveraging the synergy between wood and natural fibre composites. Incorporating flax fibre components to reinforce the thin wooden elements facilitates the use of fast-growing resources for the construction industry."
Self-Shaping Timber Structures
ICD and ITKE Design the Hybrid Flax Pavilion and Wangen Tower
Trend Themes
1. Self-shaping Materials - Innovative self-shaping materials create new construction possibilities by enabling structures to adapt and morph to predefined shapes without external interventions.
2. Bio-based Architecture - Bio-based architecture integrates natural fibers and materials, such as flax, pioneering eco-friendly and sustainable building practices.
3. Hybrid Construction Systems - Hybrid construction systems optimize resource use by combining different materials, such as wood and fiber composites, to reinforce structural integrity while reducing material wastage.
Industry Implications
1. Construction and Building Materials - The industry is evolving with the integration of bio-based materials and self-shaping technologies, offering innovative solutions for sustainable building designs.
2. Sustainable Architecture - Sustainable architecture is increasingly focusing on the use of renewable and fast-growing resources, such as flax fiber, to minimize environmental impact and enhance building efficiency.
3. Material Science and Engineering - Advancements in material science and engineering are driving the development of hybrid systems that combine organic and synthetic elements for superior performance and reduced environmental footprint.