NATIONAL UNIVERSITY- MANILA
[Link]. SAMPALOC MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
WOOD PERFORMATIVE GRIDSHELL – Experimental Educational Construction
Workshop 2012 – 2013
Scientific Director: Prof. Arch. Luigi Alini
(Shell Structure)
By
Abling, Dustin
Catapang, Joyce Camille
Dapdap, Danisse Loi
ARC215I - ABTECN5S
Ar. Phil Arlou M. Dela Cruz
Building Technology 5 Adviser
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY- MANILA
[Link]. SAMPALOC MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
I. Introduction
Through a hands-on exercise that involves the physical modeling and shaping of a
shell form, this activity aims to introduce us, architecture students, to the fundamental
behavior of shell structures, which are thin, curved surface structures that efficiently
distribute loads due to their geometry. These forms are widely used in modern
architecture and engineering for their aesthetic and structural advantages.
II. Objective
• to understand the basic principles underlying shell structure behavior.
• to demonstrate how the shell's geometry creates distributed loads.
• to develop a structurally sound shell model using imaginative architecture.
• to research flexible material form-finding techniques.
III. Materials Used
• Bolts and Nuts (For Foudation)
• Illustration board
• Cutting tools
IV. Methodology
1. Grid Planning
To act as a foundational guide, a triangular grid was sketched on the
illustration board. The arrangement of the wooden strips was determined by
the intersections.
2. Laying the Grid
A pattern of crisscrossed, perpendicular illustration board was used. The
strips were joined at each intersection using cable ties rather than glue. This
made it possible to form the curvature with flexibility.
3. Form-Finding Process
After the flat grid was finished, it was carefully raised and curved. The glue
provided flexible yet secure joints as the grid was manually deformed.
4. Final Shaping and Support
After achieving the desired shell shape, the structure was stabilized by
tightening using nuts by foundation a0nd modifying the base's contact points.
The board provided support and a clean presentation layout.
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY- MANILA
[Link]. SAMPALOC MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
V. Construction Sites and Ideal Locations
Grid shells can be constructed in various environments, including:
1. University campuses (as design-build projects)
2. Public parks and gardens
3. Eco-resorts or glamping sites
4. Exhibition areas or museums
5. Temporary use at construction sites
VI. Practical Applications
Grid shells are used for:
1. Garden pavilions and shade structures
2. Footbridges and canopies
3. Outdoor stages and performance spaces
4. Community markets and halls
5. Eco-housing or shelters in remote areas
6. Temporary exhibit halls or disaster-relief shelters
VII. Advantages
1. Material Efficiency: Uses less material than traditional structures.
2. Aesthetic Appeal: Creates fluid, organic, and eye-catching forms.
3. Sustainability: Especially when built with wood or bamboo.
4. Portability: Can be disassembled and relocated.
5. Educational Value: Great for teaching architecture and structural engineering.
VIII. Disadvantages
1. Requires Skilled Labor: Precision and knowledge in digital fabrication are
necessary.
2. Material Vulnerability: Wood and bamboo need regular maintenance.
3. Limited Load Capacity: Not ideal for multi-story or heavily loaded buildings.
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY- MANILA
[Link]. SAMPALOC MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
4. Complex Construction: Requires careful planning and on-site handling
IX. Layout and Grid Sizes
NATIONAL UNIVERSITY- MANILA
[Link]. SAMPALOC MANILA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE
X. Documentation
First Trial (Illustration and bolts and nuts)
Second Trial (Bamboo)
Final Trial (Illustration and bolts for foundation)