Digitalization Process in Architecture: Wood and Wood Constructions

• Main Authors: Manja Kitek Kuzman, Martina Zbašnik-Senegačnik
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Architecture and University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Civil and Geodetic Engineering 2019-10-01
• Series: Igra Ustvarjalnosti
• Subjects: digitalization; wood; timber constructions; architecture
• Online Access: https://iu-cg.org/paper/2019/IU-CG.2019.07.060-067.pdf

Organic, flowing natural forms have always been the inspiration for creating a built environment. Nature has developed the forms of organisms and their processes in terms of maximum optimization. Organic architecture is based on studies of forms in nature; as a rule, they are almost not straight but rounded. The design and implementation of such shapes, however, is more difficult than orthogonal and requires a good spatial performance, knowledge of geometry and also suitable tools. Digitization has also led to the development of designing complex geometric shapes - free form shape that were not manageable with simple tools. Thanks to the potential of computing, parametric design and digital manufacture, it is now possible to design structural elements and structures that deviate from orthogonal practice and form complex shapes. Digitized processes have also entered other industries, which are related to buildings construction and changed the way they work, as well as finished products. Architects, designers and engineers are provided with powerful analytical tools to create new designs, predict their behavior, and formulate effective production strategies. The current materials that has been typical for organic architecture joined new engineered wood products, which have the advantage of high load-bearing capacity, good dimensional stability and flexibility in larger dimensions. Engineered wood products offers greater design freedom for ambitious construction and manufacture technology. The classic construction methods are joined by a novel 3D printing technology, including 3D printing with wood filaments, which already allows large building structures. The article presents digitalization processes in architecture – with examples of the most recent realized projects in which they were involved in different design stages.