Date of Award

Spring 5-30-2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Architecture (MArch)

Department

Architecture

First Advisor

Dongwoo Yim

Second Advisor

Jonathan Knowles

Third Advisor

Anne Tate

Abstract

Origami is not a brand new discussion anymore, since its value in robotics had been recognized in recent decades. However, no clear or deep discussion happened on how to apply origami on architecture or other practical scale design, because they barely share common characteristics of material and operation. Architects try hard to blend origami into architecture design, what they pursue is the form. I am confused that whether origamishaped design could be regarded as origami design, or in other words, when we talk about origami design, what is it?

The first thing I’d like to clarify in thesis project is the nature of origami, with or without its form. Origami condition is about the operation. My research start with form but will focus on operation.

Secondly, I’d like talk about tectonics, how to bring origami design into reality and what I learn from realistic models. For larger scale design, a stronger and cheaper material may be needed to spread origami design principle.

The last, as the goal of my thesis semester, I will work on engaging origami theory in 1:1 scale product design to build a pratical vocablary of 1:1 scale operation which won't be limited by paper and origami.

Origami is a great topic with a lot of potential. Besides those three points I mentioned above, in the term of a project which may last for years, origami could be a methodology and a principle to help improve kinetic character of architecture. Demolishing the materiality of architecture could be a exciting jorney in the future.

Nevertheless, I reminded myself every day, there are two aspects in my project I should pursued, being practical and being peotic at the same time. I have no idea what a piece of paper could be after being folded, why not just let "folding" tell my by itself?

Included in

Architecture Commons

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