Advancing Reed-Based Architecture through Circular Digital Fabrication

This paper presents a completed research project that proposes a new approach
for creating circular buildings through the use of biodegradable, in situ resources with the help of computational design and digital fabrication technologies. Common Reed (Phragmites Australis) is an abundantly available natural material found throughout the world. Reed is typically used for thatch roofing in Europe, providing insulation and a weather-tight surface. Elsewhere, traditional techniques of weaving and bundling reeds have long been used to create entire buildings. The use of a digital production chain was explored as a means towards expanding the potential of reed as a sustainable, locally produced, construction material. Following an iterative process of designing from the micro to the macro scale and by experimenting with robotic assembly, the result is a reed-based system in the form of discrete components that can be configured to create a variety of structures.