To Knit a Wall, knit as matrix for composite materials for architecture

    Publications: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingArticle in proceedingsResearchpeer-review

    Abstract

    This paper investigates the potential for transferring thedevelopment of advanced textiles in the garmentindustry, the medical industry and automotive industryto an architectural scale. By taking into account thedevelopment of new high performance fibres, such ashigh performance polyethylene (HPPE), para aramids(Kevlar) and carbon fibre, as well as the new industrialisedand computer controlled fabrication techniques, thispaper examines how advanced technical textiles couldoffer new architectural solutions. Discussing newcomputer aided design (CAD) solutions for developingcomplex surfaces and their material specifications, thepaper traces the findings of a series of projects under theheading Knit as Building Material. The paper asks howtextiles as a technology and a material challenges theprogrammatic and technological basis of architecturalthinking. How can the thinking of inhabitation andprogramme be challenged by the possibility of designingcomplex, bespoke and malleable surfaces? Howcan the tools of the technical textiles field interface andmeet architectural design practice?
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationAmbience 08 International Scientific Conference : Proceedings 2008: Smart Textiles - Technology and Design
    EditorsLars Hallnäs, Pernilla Walkenström, Lennart Wasling
    Number of pages9
    Place of PublicationBorås
    PublisherThe Swedish School of Textiles
    Publication date2008
    Pages107-115
    ISBN (Electronic)978–91–975576–3–4
    Publication statusPublished - 2008
    EventThe conference Ambience 08 - Borås, Sweden
    Duration: 2 Jun 20083 Jun 2008

    Conference

    ConferenceThe conference Ambience 08
    Country/TerritorySweden
    CityBorås
    Period02/06/200803/06/2008

    Keywords

    • Architecture
    • knit
    • composite materials
    • bespoke making
    • complex form
    • actuated surfaces

    Artistic research

    • No

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