Project: Continuous Laminae – Laminated Timber Construction
Principal Researcher: Aleksandra Jaeschke _ AA Dipl RIBA II, BA
Research Period: 2004-2010
Research Status: ongoing

The aim of this research is to develop a sustainable and biodegradable construction system made from laminated timber that is capable of modulating defined environmental conditions by utilising the specific characteristics of timber. We would seek to demonstrate the tremendous potential of timber when assembled intelligently, considering material properties on a micro-scale from a Biomimetic approach and at a macro-scale with respect to manufacturing and assembly logics. The task is to develop a self-supporting material system made of laminated wood that is capable of bearing wind loads that can cope with abrasion and utilize changes in relative humidity, while simultaneously modulating air flow, light intensities and potential interaction with aggregates such as sand accumulation in coastal locations. In order to combine these performance requirements in one sustainable and biodegradable system two strategies were adopted in the previous stage of the research and would be further investigated: [i] continuous use of one material (laminated wood with no joints), and [ii] use of curved geometries (assuring structural and material integrity while allowing for control of environmental dynamics through local differentiations).

Fabrication aims include:
1) Replacement of the moulds with a plate support system allowing the laminated components to find the most suitable form during the fabrication process;
2) Introduction of a double curvature during the process of fabrication through rotation of the end points at support plates;
3) Exploration of a continuous sequence of fabrication (continuous lamination) in which primary laminated components are joined through successive laminations;

This research will lead to the development of a construction system that demonstrates much greater performative capacity and higher level of sustainability than commonly used timber laminate structures.
The research will be developed for application within the framework of one of the EU initiatives such as “Natura 2000” programme, which promotes sustainable interventions in environmentally-sensitive areas encouraging development of ecosystem services and activities related to tourism.