WHEN ANCIENT KNOWLEDGE MEETS THE WONDERS OF THE PRESENT
When it comes to the construction industry, innovation frequently results from reconsidering conventional methods and materials and giving them a fresh perspective. Cloth concrete and the time-tested methods of wattle daub and lime plaster are two outstanding examples. We dive into these intriguing techniques, analysing their historical import and current uses that continue to influence the design and construction industries.The Wattle and daub method is the theme we chose for our artistic studio. We investigated these intriguing practises, analysing their historical import and current uses that continue to influence design and construction.
When waste cloth features as a primary construction and design element in a space, one would hardly imagine it to have the raw sophistication found in this small cafe in Kottayam,Kerala, India. In Interior design, we often limit fabric to our soft furnishings. Ocssionally, it'll present itself in the form of a wallpaper, or panelling on a wardrobe. Moving past these basics, architect Vinu Daniel of Wallmakers designed ' Tease Me Cafe' featuring inch thick partitions made from kora cloth, which have the unduations and folds of falling drapes. This cafe served as our concept's model and inspiration.
fig:1 Teaseme Cafe
Cloth Concrete
Cloth concrete, also known as textile-reinforced concrete (TRC), is an innovative construction material that combines the flexibility and tensile strength of textiles with the durability and load-bearing capacity of concrete. It is a composite material where the traditional steel reinforcement used in concrete is replaced with a network of high-strength fabric, typically made of carbon or glass fibers. The fabric is embedded within the concrete matrix, providing reinforcement and improving the structural performance of the material. Cloth concrete offers several advantages over traditional reinforced concrete, including enhanced crack resistance, increased flexibility, reduced weight, and improved construction speed. It is being increasingly utilized in various construction applications, such as building facades, bridge construction, and restoration of historical structures, due to its ability to create slender and aesthetically pleasing designs while maintaining structural integrity. The use of cloth concrete not only offers new possibilities for architectural creativity but also contributes to more sustainable and efficient construction practices by reducing the need for conventional steel reinforcement and minimizing material waste.
Wattle and Daub Technique:
The Wattle and Daub tehnique is a traditional construction method that has been used for centuries to create interior walls and partitions. It involves weaving thin branches and or wooden strips know as wattle, into a lattice framework. The gaps between the wattle are then filled with a mixture of clay, soil and straw known as daub. The daub is applied in layers and allowed to dry forming a solid and durable wall surface. This technique not only provides insulation but also creates a unique and rustic aesthetic in interior spaces.Wattle and daub walls can be found in a variety of architectural styles, including traditional cottages, medieval castles, and even contemporary eco-friendly homes. The natural materials used in wattle and daub construction contribute to a sustainable and environmentally friendly interior design. The combination of the woven wattle and the textured daub creates a visually appealing and tactile surface that adds warmth and character to any interior space. Whether used in residential or commercial settings, the wattle and daub technique offers a timeless and charming element to interior design.
fig:2 Wattle and Daub Technique
In conclusion the construction industry's unique balancing act between history and innovation is demonstrated through materials like cloth concrete, wattle daub, and lime plaster. The versatility and eye-catching architectural expressions made possible by cloth concrete push the limits of what is possible with concrete. Wattle daub and lime plaster, on the other hand, evoke earlier eras while representing environmentally acceptable and sustainable building methods that continue to motivate contemporary builders. By investigating and reviving these antiquated techniques, we not only pay homage to our architectural past but also open the door to a more innovative and environmentally friendly construction industry in the future.
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