Although concrete is one of the most used materials in the construction industry for its durability, malleability, and weather resistance, it harms the environment. For such reasons, architects have experimented with different materials to optimize their efficiency and minimize the disadvantage to the environment.
There is a possibility of replacing traditional formwork with sustainable materials such as Bamboo, which grows in many regions. It has a very low environmental impact and high-quality textured finishes. It has been used since ancient times in different kinds of buildings.
Bamboo has always been present in nature. It has been used as construction material for centuries in the warmest parts of the earth and many kilometers far from Africa, Asia, America, and Oceania. It has also been called “green gold for poor man,” this multifaceted material has more than 1500 documented uses, and has ceased to be associated with poverty. In the construction industry, its current use is associated with resistance, versatility, and efficiency, directly linked to the beauty of the organic and intimate form of environment.
Bamboo has been in trend since 2018 due to its strong reputation, and its enormous potential makes it an essential material. The World is suffocated by pollution and waste that is generated by the construction industry. Artisans used Bamboo so effectively to create a fluidity that contrasts with the complex construction process of other materials. Now it’s time to explore new techniques of construction with Bamboo.
Bamboo has incredible potential as a building material; mistakes often constrain efforts to construct a durable structure from Bamboo during the design and construction process. Before various treatment technologies were discovered, Bamboo was criticized for its durability, one of the biggest problems while dealing with Bamboo. But now, firms like IBUKU have shown if Bamboo has been treated properly, it could last lifelong.
Although with the poor treatment, there is a mistake that compromises the longevity of the structure. Roofs are the most important architectural in bamboo construction, along with the foundations. Well constructed and designed roof plays an important role in protecting the structure, enhancing the beauty of the structure, and creating the experience.
What qualifies it as a well designed and efficient bamboo roof? Some elements that are to consider is the roof overhang to reduce tear and wear on Bamboo from direct sun and rain. The pitched roof allows running off the rainwater. Spacing between the joists to the stiffness and the material used.
Different roofing materials and techniques have been experimented with in Bali. Bamboo offers a lot of creativity to be experimented with, and leads to a wide range of shapes. It is composed of slightly tapered straight rods in its natural form that we can bend to create dynamic and fluid spaces. Bamboo posse’s flexibility naturally can be bent for light bending while creating simple frame structures using natural straight shapes.
Bamboo is a brittle elastic material, whereas steel exhibits ductility. The allowable stress in Bamboo can be utilized based on the margin of safety desired. Bamboo is anisotropic. Bamboo does not corrode and is susceptible to various degradation variations in hydrothermal conditions and a high alkaline environment. Bamboo is susceptible to fungus, and termite attacks degrade fast when exposed to high moisture levels.
The following project illustrates Bamboo’s versatility very well.
- ZCB Bamboo Pavilion by Chinese University of Hong Kong, School of Architecture
Bamboo is often used to create temporary scaffolds or rigid frames. The structure demonstrates the Bamboo’s flexibility and potential to create an entire structure out of its sturdy material.
- Big Bambu by starn Studio
The structure seems to be very chaotic, like bundles of Bamboo are arranged randomly, but it is constructed carefully. It embraces the organic and elastic nature of Bamboo. The numerous connections between the bamboo trunks strengthen support workers who climb the Bamboo as they are building. The structure integrates a wide arch which allows having a view from inside. It is dynamic. It changes shapes every time it is moved and reconstructed.
- Chan Chan Tourist Station By Utopus Studio Peru
It easily bends with the surrounding environment by imitating the clean abstract geometry of modern architecture. The repetitive line creates an intersecting shadow pattern throughout the space. It is designed to greet tourists.
- Green Ladder by Vo Trong Nghia Architects in Sydney
It is a prefabricated structure that represents Bamboo in a state between nature and architecture. It resembles scaffolding used in modern construction, presents materials in their rigid form. It creates a manufactured bamboo forest that bears ample greenery.
- Bamboo Pavilion by DnA Lishui China
It is designed to accommodate the tourists without disturbing the natural landscape. It is made up of bamboo frames which have a platform for resting and viewing. The pavilion blends with the surrounding by imitating the forms of natural mountains.
