An integrated architectural and structural design concept by using local, salvaged timber

Abstract

Our research-based design approach suggests an integrated architectural and structural design concept by using local, salvaged timber in a “material and connection – structure – architecture” sequence, which is in line with Neri Oxman´s discussion of the “Form First, Structure First, Material First: the Designer’s Causality Dilemma”. Following the philosophy of design-build, locally available, salvaged wooden material connected by wooden nails only is the main design driver. The material, its properties, size, and availability as well as the wooden nail connection are explored separately. The merger of material and the specific connection results in structurally tested prototype-assemblies and in previously unnoticed insights respectively. Together with long-term observation from exposure to the natural environment as well as architectural requirements according to its prototypical use, the findings from the prototype-assemblies are feeding back the design process, as finally showcased by a natural trail project for the city of Kouvola, Finland. The proposed trail meets the requirements of a cheap, fast, replaceable, and sustainable solution, by simultaneously including multiple modular elements for the path and a central, partly curved plaza-like area. Future work will focus on smoothening the workflow and on structural and architectural optimization with special focus on the wooden nail connections, and associated assembly geometries.Peer reviewe