The intelligence of ornaments: Exploring ornamental ways of affordable non-standard building envelopes

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to explore ornamental patterns which can be used to enhance materials characteristics in low-cost building envelopes. We use standard building materials (sheets of cross-laminated timber) and develop a parametric design framework for the assembly. Existing rules of ornamental geometry are applied to a parametric controlled structural model so as to endow the building parts both with stability and aesthetics. The concepts of mass customization and "File to factory" support the digital fabrication of a non-repetitive pattern in faade construction and lead to reduced construction costs and building time.