One tree, one building: Exploring the architectural potential of a single pine
Publicerad
Författare
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
The role of the architect has nuanced over the past decades in
tandem with the environmental crisis that the built environment has
propelled substantially. Architecture, as a discipline, must address
its environmental impact and promote sustainable practices.
Resources effectiveness and a vernacular design approach are
critical components of sustainable architecture. By embracing
these ideas, architects can play an essential role in mitigating the
environmental damage caused by the built environment and help
break the downward spiral of environmental degradation.
One Tree - One Building explores the architectural potential of a
single pine tree and proposes a design for a biodegradable forest
cabin made entirely from this material. The study is grounded in a
desire to challenge conventional building materials and methods
and their often heavy baggage of environmental impact, and
instead widen the view to find innovative solutions or rediscover
forgotten techniques.
The research methodology involves a contextualization of the
issues handled, looking at neighbouring research and concepts to
position the investigations in a larger context.
Subsequently, a thorough investigation of the properties, quantities
and characteristics of the Scots pine’s various components was
conducted prior to material investigations of how these components
could be refined into building materials. The material experiments
focus on three areas: boards, joinery and carbonization. The
material findings are evaluated on perceived aesthetical and
functional attributes.
The results of the investigations are then applied in a conceptual
biodegradable forest cabin consisting solely of material
descended from one exemplary pine tree - established from literary
investigations. The proposed design serves as a vessel for the
material findings and a precedent for future research. It does not
deal with economic, regulatory or commercial feasibility.
Components interlock through intricate joinery and rely on the
inherent strength of the pine tree, eliminating the need for metal
fasteners or chemical adhesives. The carbonization strengthens
the wood’s resistance and enables a contrast and hierarchy in the
design languages when interacting with the untreated heartwood.
The design exemplifies the potential of using local, renewable
resources to create structures that are not only functional and
aesthetically pleasing but also ecologically responsible. A
enhancing link between the occupant and the surrounding forest
environment.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Pine Tree, Vernacular, Micro Architecture, Biodegrade, Resource Effectiveness, Material Investigation, Forest Cabin