Textile Tectonics

Until recently, thanks to the unforgiving geometric rigors of modernism, biomorphism in design and architecture was seen a purely decorative feature--as in Art Nouveau, for example. Textile Techtonics turns this idea on its head, offering a glimpse into the future of architectural design, in which the veins of leaves, formations of foam, Celtic knotwork and even hair braiding can be transformed into breathtaking and viable structures through the wonders of digital design technology. For the celebrated architect and researcher Lars Spuybroek, such natural, ornamental and folkloristic pattern could entirely replace standardized geometric design to determine the structural basis and aesthetic character of tomorrow's buildings. Here, Spuybroek presents both a theoretical framework and an inspiring taxonomy of patterns and structures, followed by more than 100 illustrated designs for skyscrapers and fa ades based on organizational principles ranging from rose windows to knitting patterns.