Architecture As A Carbon-Based Practice

Author

Qixin YuFollow

Date of Award

Spring 6-1-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Architecture (MArch)

Department

Architecture

First Advisor

Tamara Metz

Second Advisor

Jonathan Knowles

Third Advisor

Jessica Smith

Abstract

Carbon serves as both a silent protagonist and a looming antagonist in the narrative of architecture, shaping not only the physical structures we inhabit but also the ecological legacy we leave behind.

Centuries of human exploitation of the environment have led to climate and material crises. Shifting this dynamic requires action at micro (matter), meso (material), and macro (materiality) levels. Biogenic materials offer significant potential for carbon sequestration and present opportunities for the building industry to collaborate with nature rather than merely extract from it.

This thesis establishes a research and manufacturing practice that prioritizes material innovation, carbon sequestration, environmental rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse. By strategically sourcing local materials such as water chestnut, sawdust, and automobile tires, this thesis transforms these waste products and carbon-sequestering substances into viable building materials through scientific experimentation and testing, ultimately integrating them into an architectural system.

Recommended Citation

Yu, Qixin, "Architecture As A Carbon-Based Practice" (2024). Masters Theses. 1204.
https://digitalcommons.risd.edu/masterstheses/1204

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