ReSidence Research Installation

ReSidence Research Installation

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) + FibR GmbH

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

DESIGN TEAM
Karlsruhe Institute Of Technology (Kit), Fibr Gmbh

PHOTOGRAPHS
Ddf_kit

AREA
51 M²

YEAR
2024

LOCATION
Germany

CATEGORY
Pavilion, Research

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

Text description provided by architect.

ReSidence presents a forward-looking approach to multi-storey construction by uniting natural materials with low-impact digital fabrication techniques.

The combination of willow, earth, flax, and wood demonstrates how challenges inherent to natural materials can be transformed into opportunities, empowering architects to actively shape and design change.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

Inspired by traditional half-timbered construction techniques, where willow and earth serve as non-structural infill, this project synergistically combines these materials into low-emission, structurally effective building elements.

The architectural concept relies on a modular configuration in which the 3.6 x 1.2-meter hybrid earth-willow-timber elements are slotted into a timber frame.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

The ceiling slab components not only enhance the building's structural function but also introduce a distinctive architectural character that reflects a thoughtful integration of form and materiality.

The façade system consists of flax fiber composite elements that span the area between the primary load-bearing structure and carry the point-supported façade.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

This modular design ensures that each component can be removed without generating waste, supporting a truly closed-loop material lifecycle.

After deconstruction, the constituent materials—willow, earth, flax, and wood—can be returned via local material cycles or reused as components in different projects.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

Willow is used as a tensile reinforcement and is arranged into spatial 'rebar' structures, while earth acts in compression, forming stable modules that echo the performance of steel-reinforced concrete yet significantly reduce environmental impact.

Flax fibers and timber complement these materials, facilitating a hybrid system that promotes closed material cycles and supports a circular local bio-economy.

These materials and the novel processes involved in their fabrication act as design drivers, inspiring new approaches to architecture that merge sustainability with design exploration.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

In turn, these approaches may enrich the building's expression with the textural qualities of natural materials, celebrating a dialogue between form and function.

The materials used in ReSidence—earth, willow, flax, and wood—were carefully selected for their sustainability and ability to promote closed material cycles, contributing to a local circular bio-economy.

The emphasis on local resources, such as willow grown on rewetted moorlands, underscores an ecological strategy aimed at reducing CO₂ emissions while maintaining agricultural productivity.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

Research in digital construction technologies formed the foundation of the project, fostering innovation from initial concept to final fabrication.

Digital tools played a crucial role in design exploration, structural simulations, and the advancement of construction techniques.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT
ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT

This approach underscored the importance of synergistic research across digital and sustainable construction, building and structural design, component testing, and life cycle assessment.

By integrating these fields, the project explored the interaction between materials and their potential for structural applications, highlighting the project's commitment to transforming sustainable building practices.

ReSidence Research Installation
© DDF_KIT


ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing - Axonometry Residence
ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing 1 - Isometric Installation
ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing 1 - Digital Design
ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing 2
ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing 3
ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing 4 - Section
ReSidence Research Installation
Drawing - Detail