Modernizing the passing joint : a standardized building system to facilitate contemporary bamboo housing construction in regions of economic constraint

Abstract

The thesis was inspired by the excellent mechanical properties of bamboo and its positive environmental effects. Despite its abundance and great qualities, the material has not been incorporated into the history of standard light frame wood construction and is therefore not used to its full potential, especially in regions of economic constraint in greatest need of housing structures. Can we design a light-frame construction system that allows for the non-standard nature of bamboo members and is inspired by the unique properties of the material? Can we reveal its contemporary uses and therefore allow for its cultural acceptance? The research investigates how a grid of members behaves as a system - incorporating imperfections and variations of individual elements. Along with the structural exploration, the work addresses the cultural misconception of bamboo as the "poor man's lumber" The exercises are aimed towards creating a housing unit that incorporates available materials into contemporary design elements.