Pop-Up Concrete: Rethinking Concrete Shell Structures

This design research investigates a computational system for concrete shell structures that translates digital modeling into adjustable formwork configurations with the use of a unique fabrication technique coined ‘pop-up concrete.’ This design method is developed in collaboration with CEMEX, a cement manufacturer with their material scientists and engineers working with architects to expand our approach to fabrication in concrete. Typically, complex concrete structures, such as shells, require elaborate and expensive formwork and reinforcement. But with the use of advanced concrete mixes, in combination with parametric design tools that allow for the flexible manipulation of digitally fabricated formwork, it is possible to revisit complex concrete shell structures for ubiquitous, mass-customized and formally varied applications.

https://doi.org/10.35483/ACSA.AM.107.67

Volume Editors
Amy Kulper, Grace La & Jeremy Ficca

ISBN
978-1-944214-21-0