Weaving A Ceramic Facade, 2020
In addition to their aesthetic qualities, the time intensive nature as well as the care required to produce ceramics gives them material worth. Their utilisation in the construction of a building shows a certain level of care, and represents an ambition to create something that is long-lasting.
Architectural ceramics, however, typically require industrial processes and skilled labour to manufacture. These aspects of ceramic production typically apply to their installation.
Therefore the technical study, in alignment with the key aims of Landressy Gardens, was centred upon the development of a ceramic facade that could be easily adapted by residents. It was important to design components that could be made and used by people with no background in making.
To achieve this, the process of slip-casting, a ceramic process that uses plaster form-work, was adapted. Following some initial experiments, a system of modular moulds that can be assembled to produce tiles of various geometries was devised. The resultant tiles were paired with a wooden cladding and fixings that would facilitate their removal and installation with relative ease.
Additionally, the processes of pit-firing and shou-sugi-ban were also tested on a small scale, leading to the proposition that they could be used by residents to create a facade that is truly varied, where each component is unique.
In addition to their aesthetic qualities, the time intensive nature as well as the care required to produce ceramics gives them material worth. Their utilisation in the construction of a building shows a certain level of care, and represents an ambition to create something that is long-lasting.
Architectural ceramics, however, typically require industrial processes and skilled labour to manufacture. These aspects of ceramic production typically apply to their installation.
Therefore the technical study, in alignment with the key aims of Landressy Gardens, was centred upon the development of a ceramic facade that could be easily adapted by residents. It was important to design components that could be made and used by people with no background in making.
To achieve this, the process of slip-casting, a ceramic process that uses plaster form-work, was adapted. Following some initial experiments, a system of modular moulds that can be assembled to produce tiles of various geometries was devised. The resultant tiles were paired with a wooden cladding and fixings that would facilitate their removal and installation with relative ease.
Additionally, the processes of pit-firing and shou-sugi-ban were also tested on a small scale, leading to the proposition that they could be used by residents to create a facade that is truly varied, where each component is unique.
Initial Experiments, stoneware
Modular Tiles, stoneware
Interlocking Ceramic Panel, stoneware, plywood
Modular Moulds, Drawing
Resultant Tiles, unfired stoneware
Swatches, Pit-fired stoneware, charred pine
Fixing Development, Prototype, stoneware, PLA, steel, plywood, steel fixings
Fixing Development, Drawing