The product of a
multi-year creative collaboration between Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and
University of Michigan Taubman College, led by professors Tsz Yan Ng and Wes
McGee, the SPLAM [SPatial LAMinated timber] pavilion showcases the potential for
prefabricated timber framing panels using robotic technology to advance more
sustainable and efficient methods of design and construction.
|
|
|
|
Spatial-laminated timber (SLT) proposes an evolution of conventional framing
systems, using an optimized timber structure. The pavilion, unveiled on
September 17 at the opening of the Chicago Architecture Biennial, is a
full-scale prototype of a single-story SLT structural framing system used in
mid-rise, fire-resistant construction. Lighter in weight than conventional
building framing methods, SLT reduces material use by 46% compared to a
traditional cross-laminated timber panel. The pavilion demonstrates a solution
that could dramatically reduce timber consumption and overall carbon footprint
if used to construct an entire building.
“Weaving together timber beams like threads in fabric, SPLAM explores the idea
of using smaller pieces of wood than conventional mass timber construction
systems. Doing so means that the wood can be sourced from more rapidly renewable
forests, or, in theory, even from the salvaged components of de-constructed
buildings,” says Scott Duncan, SOM Design Partner.
The team chose timber for its inherent sustainable qualities, as a renewable
resource which has the capacity to sequester carbon compared to conventional
concrete slabs. The pavilion comes together using interlocking timber joints,
which allows for shorter and salvaged wood beams to be used.
“Automated manufacturing technologies enable us to precisely and efficiently
prefabricate a kit of parts which can be delivered to the construction site on
demand, leveraging skilled labor where it is most effective in the process,” say
Professors Tsz Yan Ng and Wes McGee.
|
|
|
|
SPLAM is a permanent addition to EPIC Academy’s South Shore campus, one of
Chicago's most innovative high schools. The pavilion will host a series of
performances during the Biennial, and will function as an outdoor classroom and
performance venue afterwards, contributing to the future of post-pandemic
teaching and learning. The pavilion was designed and constructed in partnership
with Autodesk, McHugh Construction, Gremley & Biedermann, and REX Engineering
Group.
SPLAM Pavilion
8255 S Houston Ave, Chicago, IL
September 17 - December 31, 2021
Opening Hours: Saturdays, 12 - 5 pm CT
SOM | Robotically Fabricated Timber Pavilion
About the Chicago Architecture Biennial
The Chicago Architecture Biennial explores and celebrates the city’s unique
legacy of architectural innovation. Launched in 2015, the Biennial is designed
to deepen and expand the conversation on architecture and the built environment
among a wide audience of artists, design professionals, civic leaders, educators,
cultural organizations, and the general public. This engagement marks the
largest survey of architecture and design in North America. This exhibition will
bring the work of SOM and our partners to the forefront of the post-pandemic
design conversation. The 2021 Biennial, entitled The Available City, centers a
collaborative, community-led design approach that presents transformative
possibilities for vacant urban spaces, created with and for local residents.
Through workshops, installations, activations, performances, and programs, The
Available City invites a critical global conversation on how design can foster
collective engagement and agency to identify new forms of shared urban space
through an inclusive and transparent design process.
Kendall McCaugherty ©
Hall+Merrick Photographers, Release Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, SOM, Chicago