Abstract
This paper presents a novel workflow that integrates circular economy principles into architecture, focusing on the utilisation of low-value timber by-products. The workflow is demonstrated through the digital fabrication of a full-scale proof-of-concept structure, harnessing forest thinnings from a wastewater-irrigated plantation. These irregular, thin tree logs are transformed into bespoke architectural elements while minimising waste. Employing advanced digital tools, including interactive form-finding, inventory-constrained part assignment, and combinatorial equilibrium modelling (CEM) - the process accommodates material variability while maintaining design flexibility. Real-time collaboration between remote designers and on-site teams streamlines harvesting, processing, and transport, optimising production efficiency and reducing environmental impacts. By eliminating reliance on traditional standardisation, this method enhances material utilisation, retains embodied carbon, and supports sustainable construction practices. The full-scale proof of concept structure validates the workflow, showcasing its resource efficiency and potential scalability. This study evaluates the applicability of such workflows in sustainable construction and identifies opportunities for further exploration of their environmental and economic benefits in larger-scale applications.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Proceedings of the International Conference on Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia |
| Publisher | The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA) |
| Pages | 427 – 436 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Volume | 3 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9789887891864 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 2025 |
| Externally published | Yes |
| Event | The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA) 30th conference - Tokyo, Japan Duration: 22 Mar 2025 → 29 Mar 2025 https://caadria.org/current-conference/ |
Conference
| Conference | The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA) 30th conference |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | CAADRIA2025 |
| Country/Territory | Japan |
| City | Tokyo |
| Period | 22/03/25 → 29/03/25 |
| Other | The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA) was established to promote the dissemination of information on computer-aided design among research and educational institutions in the fields of architecture, urban engineering, and information technology in Asia. Since then, 28 annual conferences have been held in Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. The conferences provide an opportunity for teachers, students, researchers, and practitioners to meet each other and learn about the latest research in the field. In recent years, research has expanded beyond the initial CAD framework into the field of architectural informatics, capturing trends in diverse information fields related to architecture. Furthermore, the number of accepted papers has increased rapidly in this active conference. Japan is one of the founding countries of CAADRIA. While previous conferences have been held at Osaka University, Kumamoto University, and Kyoto Institute of Technology, it will be the first time in Tokyo. Therefore, with CAADRIA 2025, we aim to make Japanese researchers aware of international trends and provide an opportunity for overseas researchers to engage with the uniqueness and advanced nature of Japanese research. CAADRIA has traditionally set the registration fee for students at about half price. Furthermore, the conference also has an awarding system for excellent papers, such as the Young CAADRIA Award, and the registration fee is waived for young researchers who receive the award. In addition to research presentations, there will be a Post Graduate Consortium, a session for doctoral students to exchange opinions on their research policies, and educational workshops where students can learn through direct use of digital fabrication equipment, IoT equipment, XR equipment, etc. These are valuable opportunities for students from the host country to participate and be motivated to explore new fields. In addition, exchanges with leading foreign researchers strengthen international relationships and foster research collaborations. We believe that the purpose of holding this event is to contribute to the development of the architectural information field through the wide-ranging exchanges among students and researchers. |
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