F A B Shell

This project explores the use of fabric formwork for concrete shells, emphasizing reusability and ease of handling by the local workforce. The broader goal is to introduce an innovative, bespoke formwork system at an architectural scale, contributing to the Industry 4.0 Revolution in construction.

The method is straightforward: a tensile membrane is draped over telescopic steel arches to create an anticlastic funicular form. This tensioned shape is strong enough to support sprayed or poured concrete, utilizing membrane stresses to carry the load. Once the concrete has set, the formwork can be easily removed, thanks to the retractable telescopic arches. These arches are reusable for different spans by adjusting the overlap between the retractable sections.

The unique membrane shape allows for the creation of multiple identical shells or integration into a larger, repeatable system.