Modular timber structure pavilion made of single-material joints with re-use-material membrane roof : An innovative research and teaching project

Abstract

Based on an internal student competition, the Stuttgart University of Applied Sciences is building a modular wooden pavilion with a membrane roof. The building (2 perimeter and 10 standard bays, each approx. 2.2 m × 5.5 m) houses the student association pavilion ‘Block 4’ and will be a place for meetings, research, transfer and teaching. It will replace the previous experimental building, which will be selectively dismantled. The plan is to reuse as many materials as possible from the old building for the new pavilion or other university projects. The project meets the highest sustainability standards, e.g. no use of coatings or glues, no nail plates, but single-material, detachable wood joints. The modular primary timber construction is made of calamity wood and is equipped with interchangeable rigid and movable filling elements, which are to be used for research into renewable raw materials in teaching and research projects. The supporting structure was planned and manufactured by students in collaboration with a regional carpentry company. The membrane roof uses only recycled/reused materials and will also be realized with a maximum of student input. We produce as many connections and fi ttings as possible in our workshops. The membrane material should also be processed as completely as possible by students at the university. All planning processes, construction details and assembly steps have therefore been coordinated accordingly. The already constructed primary building is currently (6/2025) standing with a temporary roof, the membrane roof will be installed in summer 2025. Reusable material for this has already been identifi ed and initial suitability tests have been positive. The interior fi ttings, which are still outstanding, are also planned according to the same circular principles and do not use adhesives, but instead rely on the intelligent use of materials. The entire building is due to be completed by the end of the year