THE CONFLUENCE OF FABRIC & ARCHITECTURE : TECTONICS OF THE FUTURE

Abstract

From the primitive tents of the ancients to the sophisticated membrane structures of the present, the longstanding dialogue between fabric and architecture represent an increasingly rich confluence of ideas, materials, technologies and physical realisations. The notion of fabric has always had connotations of transience, fluidity and lightness, in contrast to the permanence, rigidity and weight associated with architecture. As such, their reciprocal qualities have made for an interesting and dynamic relationship that seeks to complement at times, and to contradict at others. This fascinating interweaving of polarities today is extending beyond mere aesthetics to leading explorations into that of the tectonic, as well as material and green technology. Therein lies a plethora of promising solutions demanded by the globalised, fast-changing, multi-tasking yet resource-starved landscape of today’s context. Thus, this dissertation seeks to delve into this confluence of ideas between fabric and architecture by means of a technical perspective. It will pursue a clear framework of understanding and definition of the manifestations of this confluence in our contemporary context, and therefore, its potential and significance both in the present as well as into the future. Its essential aim is to collect extant and developing theories and praxis of the influence of fabric on architecture, analyse and then classify them into various trajectories that define the nature of this cross-disciplinary relationship, thus in its totality piecing together a new body of knowledge. Having established this framework, it will proceed to study through these trajectories, how the confluence of fabric and architecture is evolving. Then, it aims to envision the future possibilities of this confluence through an understanding of relevant contemporary conditions and upcoming trends. The conclusion will present a matrix of relationships between the different trajectories and the various aspects of architecture, in relation to current and future trends, to offer suggestions of potential facets that have yet to be explored as well as the direction of future developments.