Holzbau : timber construction and material information exchanges for the design of complex geometrical structures

Abstract

In a universe made of bits where everything is continuously computing and nature itself is processing information everyday, what is it that our materials compute? Specifically, what are the bits of information registered within timber? More importantly, in this universe made of bits how do we design using this information and how do we imagine new buildings? This thesis explores the use of wood as a natural material in the design and construction of complex geometrical timber structures by capturing the natural curvature found in timber into digital data and building a framework for surface timber mapping as a design method. Key results include a detailed framework for translation, method for timber mapping and a prototype utilizing this method. Future steps include growth of timber structures and the use of living material in combination with typical timber construction methods for the design and construction of future buildings.