Timber Structures for Circularity: Reinterpreting Lessons from the Past

Abstract

Recurring resource scarcity has created a long record of ingenious systems for optimizing use of available wood. Reciprocal frames, Delorme arches and laminated timber trusses exemplify the use of small elements for large-span systems. As the current environmental urgency necessitates addressing circularity with surplus and reclaimed materials, revisiting ingenious ideas from these systems can inform optimal resource reuse by future professionals. This paper shows how considering successful precedents aided in generating circular designs in two courses, guided by the principles of "Design for Reuse" and Design from Reuse". Through the development of a reciprocal frame arch using small plywood components and of a spatial laminated truss crafted from waste lumber, it showcases both opportunities and challenges inherent in reinterpreting historical lessons to create contemporary sustainable spatial timber structures.