M.Arch Thesis 2019

THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION IN BAMBOO ARCHITECTURE

THESIS

THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION

SUTD Master of Architecture Thesis Document The Poetics of Construction In Bamboo Architecture So Jing Wen Master of Architecture Student Advisor: Felix Raspall Architecture and Sustainable Design E-Mail: jingwen_so@mymail.sutd.edu.sg

ABST RACT M E T H O D O LO G Y

2

DEV E LO PI N G A L A N G UAG E

2.1

PHYSI CA L EX PLO R AT I O NS

2.2

ORGA NI S AT I O N SYST EM

2.3

TOP O GR A PHY A S PL A NE

3

APP L I CAT I O N TO SI T E

3.1

SI TE SELECT I O N

3.2

MACR O | R ES H A PI NG T HE SI T E

3.3

MI CR O | A PPLY I NG T H E MO DU LE

4

DISSE CT I N G T H E MO D UL E

4.1

SYST EM S

4.2

PL AN

4.3

SECT I O N

5

DO CUME N TAT I O N

5.1

LI NEA R MO DU LE I ( 1: 50)

5.2

LI NEA R MO DU LE I I ( 1: 50)

5.3

LI NEA R MO DU LE I ( 1: 30)

6

FU T UR E POT E N T I A LS

7

BIBL I O G RA PH Y

THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION

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4

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THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION

METHODOLOGY

METHODOLOGY

Case Studies

The second volume builds on the background

drawing techniques

research and experimentation from thesis

construction techniques

preparation. In the first volume, a preliminary vocabulary - line, plane, and space was derived

Taxonomy

from compelling discoveries in selected projects

line

by Simón Vélez. This vocabulary was then applied

plane

to a series of physical explorations that sought to

space

develop a new language for geometry in bamboo architecture.

physical tools

In this volume, the second phase of research

physical model analysis

seeks to refine the language through site specificity and additional design dimensions.

Developing a Language

Similar to the taxonomy, the language is

organisational system

developed at various scales to breakdown the

topography as plane

layers of complexity. The macro scale studies the organisation of modules and flow across the

Application to Site

site. At the micro scale, the module is applied to

site selection

local conditions. At the nano scale, each module

macro | reshaping the site

is developed in detail acccording to its program

micro | applying the module

and use.

Dissecting the Module

The final chapter seeks to document the process

of learning and discovery in the development of

plan

section

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Physical Explorations

the physical models and topography.

perspectives Documentation

linear module I (1:50)

linear module II (1:50)

linear module I (1:30)

▶

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6

DEVELOPING A LANGUAGE

PHYSICAL EXPLORATIONS ORGANISATION SYSTEM TOPOGRAPHY AS PLANE

P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Following the application of the taxonomy line, plane and space to a series of experimental models, these physical models are revisited and redrawn for further analysis.

Across the physical explorations with varying starting points and configurations, a common language is developed from similar features that emerge. These features are unique to the methodology of physical modelling in this research, such as the invention of the physical tools. At an abstract level, the physical structural forms as a basis for further development.

The development of a language also seeks to introduce additional layers of complexity to the space through an organisational system and topography. These aspects were not explored within the limitations of the physical explorations, but can potentially enhance the possibilities of the

THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION

modelling process generates novel and intriguing

taxonomy.

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P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Linear module L1 1 Spine Distinct central axis defined in the model as the main circulation. The staggered spine and modules created an angled central access to the pavilion.

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2 Modules

Plan

Sub spaces on both sides of the model that can be agglomerated along the central axis. Each module is defined by 4 arcs that meet at the center point.

3 Naves Hierarchy of spaces similar to traditional Gothic cathedrals. Large voids shaped by the naves create deceptive lightness of

Long elevation

the structure. The nave terminates with a bundle with a pointy characteristic.

4

Arc & rhythm Movement through staggering arcs of varying amplitude. The expansion and compression of each structural layer generates a rhythmic roof.

8

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Short elevation

LINEAR Bundling Bundling

Terminate Terminate

Linear module L1

L1

t1 t1

b2 b2

t2 t2

b3 b3

2a

a

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b1 b1

t3 t3

2a

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Naves

Arc & rhythm

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L2

P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Linear module L2 1 Spine Multiple spines defined by distinct axes along the sides of the model.

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2 Modules

Plan

Curved and straight segments are threaded from spine to spine to create a weaved mesh. Versatility of the module to generate undulating meshes that connect at different heights.

3 Naves The spine consists of multiple elements that resemble naves that form a walkway and differentiate the hierarchy of spaces.

Long elevation

4 Torque Linear array of elements along the spine that twist in different directions to generate torque.

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Short elevation

Bundling

a

2a

2a

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Naves

Arc & rhythm

Bundling

Terminate

LINEAR

Terminate

Intersect

Linear module L2 b1

t1

b2 i1

t2

b3

t3

L2

t1

b2

t2

i2

b3

t3

i3

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Naves

Torque

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b1

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P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Radial module R1 1 Modules Looping modules connect the base points to create framed views and spaces.

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2 Movement

Plan

While there is no defined axis or spine, the structure frames the circulation and access points. The multidirectional circulation generates movement through the model.

3 Asymmetry Asymmetry of the module distinguishes the central space and side spaces at both corners that are more enclosed.

Long elevation

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Short elevation

Bundling

Terminate

Intersect

RADIAL Bundling

Terminate

Intersect

Radial module R2 b1

t1

i1

b1 b2

t1 t2

i1 i2

b2 b3

t2 t3

i2 i3

b3

t3

R1

m

I

II

III

Movement

Asymmetry

Modules

THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION

2a

i3

a

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R2

P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Radial module R2 1 Spine Spine defined by symmetry along the central axis and density of structure at both ends.

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2 Modules

Plan

Modules defined by semi domes with different diameters to differentiate the hierarchy of spaces.

3

Compression and expansion Convergence and divergence of the structure that terminates with a bundle generates rhythm.

Long elevation

4 Triangular Modules can be simplified into triangular base shapes that are varied with arcs.

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Short elevation

que

I

II

III

Movement

Asymmetry

Modules Bundling

a

RADIAL Terminate

Intersect

Radial module R2

R2

b1

t1

i1

b2

t2

i2

b3

t3

i3

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V

2a

2a 2a a

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Compression and expansion

Triangular

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P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Offset module O1 1 Spine Vertical and horizontal central spine defined by framed openings to the model.

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2 Modules

Plan

Three modules with different hierachies and dimensions can be identified. These modules are arrayed around the center radially.

3

Rotated frames Structure is simplified into two square frames that are rotated by 45 degrees. The rotated frames generate torque where the

Long elevation

end points of each bamboo cross between two frames.

4

Arc & rhythm Varying amplitude of the central dome and smaller radial domes creates rhythm in the structure.

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Detail

OFFSET Bundling Bundling

Terminate

Terminate

Intersect

Offset module O1

O1

b1 b

1

t

i

1

t1

1

b2 t2

b3

t3

i2

b3 i3

t2

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b2

t3

2a a 2a

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Rotated frames

Arc & rhythm

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O2

P H Y S I C A L E X P LO R AT I O N S

Offset module O2 1 Spine Spine is defined on both sides of the model where the base points are offset.

Central and diagonal lines that form the primary structure of the model define access points to the pavilion.

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2 Modules

Plan

Each module is symmetrical along the central spine and overlap to form a central space where the diagonal axes converge.

3

Compression & expansion Compression and expansion of arcs create different roof heights and shape the interior spaces.

4

Long elevation

Roof layers Complexity and density in roof layers create light patterns that enhance the interior space.

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Short elevation

Bundling

Terminate

a 2a

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Rotated frames

Arc & rhythm

Bundling

OFFSET

Terminate

Intersect

Offset module O2 b1

t1

b2

t2

t1

i1

b3

t3

t

i2

O2

b1

b

2

b3

I

II

III

IV

Spine

Modules

Compression and expansion

Roof layers

2

t3

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ular

2a

i3

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Conventional placement of pavilions

Vs.

Topography as plane

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Topography as planeTopography as plane

SPINE

SPINE MODULE CONNECTOR

Components

MODULE

SPINE I

Organisation of pavilions along a spine

Organisational system

Basepoints in a planeBasepoints in a plane

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SPINE II

SPINE II

SPINE I

Multiple spines & modules

CONNECTOR

Spine and modules

DEVELOPING A LANGUAGE

Organisational system Conventionally, bamboo pavilions are randomly placed on site as isolated spaces with no relationship to one another. The derivation of an organisational system from the physical explorations organises the spaces along a spine, generating complexity in the relationship between modules.

These features are most prominent in the linear module.

explore the base points in the same plane. The use of topography as plane can potentially generate more spatial and structural complexity, through varying the positions of base points in a three dimensional plane.

Topography as plane

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In the organisation of the plane, the physical models

Spine is the defined axis that guides the flow of the circulation and modules Modules are the sub spaces along the spine that can be added or removed depending on programmatic requirements Connector between spines allows multiple axes to meet and diverge

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APPLICATION TO SITE

SITE SELECTION MACRO | RESHAPING THE SITE M I C R O | A P P LY I N G T H E M O D U L E

Site Selection The selected site is in Baizhang, Hangzhou, where bamboo forests are abundant and the culture of bamboo is strongly developed and promoted. A site visit has been made to Baizhang to understand the local culture and potential site conditions.

The specific site location at Pishanwu reservoir is selected based on the conditions in which the The existing topography and geographical features are key considerations, which allow testing for the flexibility and adaptation of the structure to varying site conditions.

At the macro scale, existing contours are reshaped in consideration of flow across the site and programmatic requirements. At the

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vocabulary and parameters have to be tested.

micro scale, the modules derived from the physical explorations respond to the topography and further shape it to generate interesting interactions.

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A P P L I C AT I O N TO S I T E

SHANGHAI

EAST

CH

IN

A SE

A

HANGZHOU

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NINGBO

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Map of Hangzhou

SITE SELECTION

Map of Hangzhou Being the capital of China's Zhejiang province, the city of Hangzhou is well connected to major cities like Ningbo and Shanghai. The unique topography and natural features of the city are highlighted in an abstraction of the map of Hangzhou, where the specific site is located within a mountainous region in Baizhang, towards the North of the city.

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A P P L I C AT I O N TO S I T E

HA NG ZH OU

BAMBOO FOREST

EX PR ES SW AY RICE PA D D I E S

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SITE

M O U N TA I N O U S REGION

500m

XIKOU VILLAGE

1km

BAIZHANG

HANGZHOU

2km

MAIN ROAD

Map of Baizhang (top) Map of Pishanwu Reservoir (bottom)

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LOCAL VILLAGES

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

Map of Baizhang At a local scale, the site is located in rural Baizhang. The specific location of the site is at Pishanwu reservoir that is located mid hill, and surrounded by taller mountains.

To the East, the presence of rice paddies create a relatively flat terrain. To the West, where the reservoir is located, the mountainous terrain creates a variation of topographic conditions that

The reservoir is in close proximity to Xikou village, which is developed as a bamboo village to promote bamboo as a material to locals and visitors. For the most of the village, bamboo is used in construction, furnishing and various applications to reflect the unique relationship between the material and local way of living.

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are suitable for the project.

A segment along the perimeter of the reservoir with different topographic conditions is selected as the project site. The project connects the existing trail at the reservoir, which is primarily accessed from the main road in the East, and accessed by locals in villages from the South.

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A P P L I C AT I O N TO S I T E

Main structure

Spine and modules

Intermmediate structure Spine Module

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Main road

Movement through site

Steepest topography

Existing trail Steeper topography Gentler topography

Programmatic nodes

Visitor centre

Museum

Community centre

Program

Residents

Workshop

Children Cafe

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Kindergarten

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International visitors Local visitors

Library

Bamboo craftsmen

RESHAPING THE SITE

Macro | Reshaping the site

Micro | Applying the module

1

3 Program

Movement through site

Selected modules are applied according

more lines are added to reshape the site

to the spatial requirements of each

and apply the modules.

program.

The main circulation follows existing

For instance, the linear modules are

contours. There are 3 main programmatic

applied to programs such as the library

zones differentiated by the steepness of

and cafe to create a central circulation

the topography. From the main entrance,

spine that distributes to individual

the steepest topography behaves as a

units with enclosed programmatic

wall, transitting to steep topography that

spaces. Offset modules that are not

is convex and opens up to views, finally

easily agglomerated are applied for the

expanding to larger programmatic space

kindergarten and community centre that

where there is gentler topography.

function as singular consolidated spaces.

2 Program

4

Spine and modules

A variety of programs that explore

The spine of each module is established

different spatial requirements are

along the project flow, units are then

positioned along the flow, according

added along the spine to cater to different

to ease of access for its users. Visitor

programmatic sizes.

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Based on the existing contour of the site,

programs are placed closer to the main road, whereas programs catering to

In response to existing contours and

locals are on the other end of the trail.

program, the primary, secondary and

The project begins with the visitor centre

tertiary structure of each module is then

where visitors enter, followed by the

warped. The corresponding topography is

main program cluster consisting of the

also reshaped as architectural elements,

museum, cafe and library. The bamboo

such as floor and wall to accomodate the

workshop acts as a transition space from

programs.

visitor programs to the kindergarten and community centre for local residents. â–ś

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

LINEAR MODULE L1 LINEAR MODULE L2

DISSECTING THE MODULE

Of the physical explorations applied to the site, the linear modules were developed in detail, as the linear configuration had better flexibility and response to the linear site.

The physical explorations based on the taxonomy established the primary structure for the modules. This study seeks to delve deeper into the secondary and tertiary structure, as well as the surface cladding, to develop an architectural space from the abstract form. Topography is also investigate the relationship between the line and plane.

The methodology of the study continued to manifest primarily as physical models, but also involved two dimensional drawings as a translation of VĂŠlez's drawing techniques.

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a introduced as an additional area of research to

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

Programmatic space

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Reshaping topography

Units and spine

Macro flow

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Topography design flow

SYSTEMS

Topography Design Flow 1

Macro flow

3

Reshaping topography

The main circulation to access the

Existing contours are redrawn in response

pavilions across the site follows the

to the units and spine. Where the pavilion

existing contours and trail along

sits, the volume is pushed in to create a

the reservoir. In this segment of the

wall and foundation for structure; and the

project, the hill interfaces the reservoir,

excavated volume is used as the floor of

emphasizing the sectional relationship

the pavilion to extend the hill towards the

between the pavilion and its surrounding

water. The relationship between the units

natural features.

and spine and topography is a reciprocal to create an architectural space that is well contextualised.

2

Units and spine

4

Programmatic space

The spine and units are positioned

Main programmatic spaces in the pavilion

parallel to the contours to use the

are raised at different floor heights to

topography as a tool for programmatic

partition the spaces. The spine of the

divisions and steps that gradually transit

module is used as public circulation,

from one pavilion to the next on steeper

and the shaded units as enclosed private

topography.

spaces, such as reading rooms. The

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one where both forces shape one another

central unit is kept as an open axis from The generic spine and units are useful

the water to the back of the hill to draw

tools as a basis for the programmatic

the natural environment into the interior

area and flow through the pavilion.

space.

Thereafter, they are reshaped and warped in response to the topography and

Aside from the main library space, the

program, demonstrating the flexibility and

stepped topography along the water edge

versatility of such a system to adapt to

is incorporated as a cafe, where users can

changing design requirements.

dine along the reservoir and enjoy the panoramic views. â–ś

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

Weaving surface

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Tertiary structure

Secondary structure

Primary structure

Base points

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Structural design flow

SYSTEMS

Structural Design Flow 1

Base points

3

Secondary and tertiary structure

Based on the spine and units, the

The secondary and tertiary structure

preliminary base points are positioned

begin to shape the interior spaces and

on site. These base points are then

demarcate programmatic zones. As

repositioned according to the new

the primary structure contains limited

topography.

information about the specific volume of the pavilion, the secondary and tertiary

The base points also contain information

structure further refine the concavity or

on the number of bamboos in the bundle

convexity of the surface.

strength needed for each base point. This

For instance, the structure is dome like

is manifested as footings that are inserted

for the library space for enclosure and

into the topography in the physical

protection, whereas the front of the

models.

pavilion is flatter and pulled upwards to expose the cafe. Skylights are also created at the top of the structure for natural light.

2

Primary structure

4

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according to the structural density and

Weaving surface

The primary structure is mainly derived

The final layer of structure is added

from the physical explorations. As the

between the existing structures to refine

main structure of the pavilion, the primary

the spacing, where a surface is weaved

structure shapes the volume of the

onto the structure to become the skin of

pavilion and demarcates the roof.

the pavilion. This layer determines the density of the weaving, which in turn

According to the programmatic

affects the porosity of the surface.

requirements, the volume can be opened or closed, such as enclosure towards the

The weaved surface can also vary interior

back to accomodate library spaces behind

lighting conditions through the thickness

and opening towards the water for the

and number of bands weaved, which are

cafe seatings.

experimented in the physical models.

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

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Plan L1 1:150

LINEAR MODULE L1

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

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Structural plan L1 1:150

LINEAR MODULE L1

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primary secondary tertiary

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

Programmatic space

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Reshaping topography

Units and spine

Macro flow

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Topography design flow

SYSTEMS

Topography Design Flow 1

Macro flow

3

Reshaping topography

The flow of the pavilion is similarly

As the lines of the spine and roof are

parallel to the topography but climbs

linear and flow across the site, the

from lower to higher altitude as a

contours are reshaped to match the

transition from linear module L1.

projection of the roof, creating linear stepped spaces that blend with the existing contours.

The contour lines also converge and spaces and circulation pathways, generating physical and visual movement across the project.

2

Units and spine

4

Programmatic space

The unique characteristic of this module

As a bamboo workshop, the narrower

allows for multiple spines, from which the

stepped space is used for demonstrations

units are weaved to create a surface. The

or lectures, which expands to larger

spine weaves between the contours in

programmatic space towards the left that

different orientations to create a slightly

becomes the main workshop space. The

twisting roof surface and explore different

fabrication of bamboo is carried out in

relationships with the topography.

the main workspace and bamboo material

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diverge to expand into programmatic

can be conveniently retrieved from the As the units can be weaved between any

back of the hill where the pavilion opens

point on the spine, the resulting roof

up to.

surface is undulating and with varying height to generate unique interior spaces.

The undulating roof also opens up to panoramic views of the natural surroundings, where the floor space is kept shallow and linear to maximise views â–ś

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while working with bamboo..

DISSECTING THE MODULE

Tertiary structure

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Secondary structure

Primary structure

Base points

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Structural design flow

SYSTEMS

Structural Design Flow 1

3

Secondary and tertiary structure

The base points of the structure are

The secondary and tertiary structure are

similarly imposed by the spine and units.

straight and curved segments that are

The nature of this module is such that the

weaved between the primary structure to

spine acts as columns and create a higher

form a surface. The secondary structure

density of structure where they touch

runs parallel to the contours and connects

the ground, and appear as a lightweight

through all the spines, whereas the

structure where the roof is raised from the

tertiary structure is perpendicular to the

ground.

secondary structure to create a mesh.

Primary structure

4

Weaving surface

The spine forms the primary structure

The structure for the weaving surface is

of the pavilion, which creates triangular

diagonal to both secondary and tertiary

domes that emerge from 3 points in the

structure to create a tight, intersecting

ground and meet at a point, where the

surface. The roof surface of this module

roof is weaved between.

is more direct and does not require

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2

Base points

additional structure to shape the volume, As the strucure of the spine is dense in

as compared to linear module L1. The

comparison to the roof, it creates more

resulting roof surface is unpredictable and

enclosed spaces that can be used as

multidirectional in response to the spine

storage or transition spaces from one

in different orientations and heights.

program to another.

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

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Plan L2 1:150

LINEAR MODULE L2

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

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Structural plan L1 1:150

LINEAR MODULE L2

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primary secondary tertiary

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DISSECTING THE MODULE

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Section L1 & L2 1:200

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DOCUMENTATION

LINEAR MODULE I (1:50) LINEAR MODULE II (1:50) LINEAR MODULE I (1:30)

D O C U M E N TAT I O N

This section documents the process of learning and discovery through the unique methodology of physical model making.

The first phase of physical explorations sought to invent and explore new forms and structures, through the application of physical modelling tools that were abstracted from the techniques of the architect.

The second phase of physical models at a scale topography and plane, and the generation of surface or cladding to enclose the building.

Linear modules L1 and L2 were selected for further studies, as the linear configuration provided greater versatility and responded better to the linear site. This phase sought to transform the abstract structural models into architectural space, through a site specific and programmatic

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of 1:50 investigated the relationship between

approach.

The final physical model at 1:30 sought to refine the approach towards topography and weaving surface. At this scale, furniture was added for programmatic visualisation and study of interior spatial effects such as lighting.

With the progression of the physical models at various scales, the vocabulary derived from the techniques of Velez has been developed and refined into a new language for bamboo structures, that is consistent yet novel in the spaces that it generates. â–ś

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

Plan

Front elevation

LINEAR MODULE L1 (1:50)

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Short elevation

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Short elevation

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

Plan

Front elevation

LINEAR MODULE L2 (1:50)

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Front perspective

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Short elevation

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

Front elevation

Back elevation

LINEAR MODULE L1 (1:30)

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Short elevation

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Short elevation

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

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D O C U M E N TAT I O N

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FUTURE POTENTIALS

FUTURE POTENTIALS

The research was a journey of learning and discovery, repeatedly performing the same task at various levels of intensity to explore and experiment with different outcomes. The result was a consistent, novel language and series of vocabulary that was derived from the techniques of Simón Vélez, but a radical departure from his architectural works.

The research also sought to balance the two key forces in the project - structure and the taxonomy with rigour to refine control of the joinery as vocabulary. Learning to work with the limitations of the material and adopting the non conventional methodology of crafting often led to discoveries that were novel and not predicted.

Beginning with the study of precedents by the architect, the research was a fine balance

THE POETICS OF CONSTRUCTION

topography, through repeating the operations in

between challenging the project to develop a constructional language that departed from architect's techniques, yet being less stringent with the process to allow unexpected discoveries and takeaways to happen. While craftsmanship was as a methodology, there is potential for the digitalisation of the physical models through 3d scanning and point cloud that can

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