Fabric formed concrete structures and architectural elements

Fabric form work is a rapidly evolving technology that challenges the conventional approach to the production of concrete structures and elements. This paper presents the outcome of a prolonged series of studies. The technology and its expression is examined through a series of creative studios with senior architecture students and more detailed complimentary studies on structural behaviour. These studies include investigations into surface texture and finish, the design, development and construction of large-scale prototypes, beams, columns, walls and shells as well as the structural development and testing of form-active beams. Fabric form work is an effective and expressive technology, one that can be applied in a wide variety of applications. It demonstrates the characteristics of a disruptive technology, one that challenges the existing paradigm, in this case the predominance of rigid form work.