Using geodesic domes as the form for some initial computer and physically modelling speculation led me to testing the idea of bamboo taking on a larger role in the process of construction rather than the final form - the idea of using casting materials on bamboo supported formwork. It is now important to begin to push this idea further, exploring exactly how this could be done, and the range of forms that are possible with this.
A new idea which has just come to me today, is that living bamboo could be used as the falsework or scaffolding for formwork. Bamboo could be planted in the area where the next phase of building is required. Then, after it has grown to the required height and maturity, it can be pruned to create the desired form which is to be cast, in a sort of 'bamboo forest topiary'. The bamboo forest, in its cut state, would positively fill what is to become the negative space underneath the cast structure. Then, formwork could be laid over this in some manner, and then casting take place on top of it. Finally, once the cast material is cured, the bamboo can be harvested, cut away from underneath it, and the formwork panels removed. This will leave an occupiable cast building as the primary outcome, with the secondary product being lots of bamboo, ready for use in any other capacity - such as for temporary structures.
Concept sketch sections
Thinking about a singular three-dimensional form being created by many much smaller, linear, constituent parts, i.e. a bamboo forest, is conjuring up the image to me of those 'pin art' toys. These are described as "a boxed surface made of a crowded array of pins that are free to slide in and out independently in a screen to create a three dimensional relief". This is a good quick visual cue for the idea of how the bamboo forest, when trimmed, can take on any form, which can then be cast.
'Pin art' example
I think that this idea is a potentially very interesting one to explore, as it is unlike anything that I have seen or heard of before. There will be a number of complicated factors to consider, such as working with a living material (especially a fast growing one like bamboo) and all of the variables and required tolerances that that brings with it, when it comes to applying formwork, for example. I think that these challenges will really help focus my research and work, and take me in interesting directions, even if they do end up moving me away from this initial idea.
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