Modulated corrugations by differential growth - Integrated FRP tectonics towards a new approach to sustainability, fusing architectural and energy design for a new students’ space

This Master Thesis research investigates the concept of 'integrated tectonics' as a new way of thinking sustainability in architecture, intended as an ecology of different, integrated factors which take part in a seamless design-to-fabrication process. In particular, this new paradigm is applied to the design of a pavilion made of a fiber-reinforced (FRP) sandwich shell integrating multiple systems and performances. A differential growth algorithm mimicking cellular tissue development modulates performance across the surface through ornamental features in the form of corrugated patterns. Iterative feedback simulations allow the exploration of the mutual relations connecting morphogenesis and performance distribution patterns at the architectural scale. Problems connected to simulation inaccuracies and difficult software integration are discussed. A 1:2 scale prototype of a shell portion was fabricated to test material properties and production feasibility.