Autobryksformation: towards a new approach to brick expressionism. Methods for unique idiosyncrasies in architectural material systems. A practice in the making

With a focus on robotically controlled 3d printing methods, the body of research of this dissertation reflects current trajectories in my practice that use raw clay as a base material to innovate form, function, and ornament of architectural ceramic building components. My practice oscillates between research work in the Robotic Fabrication Lab and my teaching at HKU. The two arenas have become the dominant modes of operation to advance the creative work and constantly influence each other through their specific relationship. Rethinking and revitalizing the 7000-year-old material system of brick, and in particular the brick special (bespoke brick) and other means of ceramic components, the research addresses new modes of production that explore innovative structures, novel performances, and unplanned surface expres¬sions with the purpose of offering material solutions for architecture that can be more specific to its needs on the one hand and more expressive on the other hand. Via consecutive exploration with design-built projects, prototypes, and material experimentations in a lab environment, the research unfolds and contextualizes the methods of making that have been developed successively over time. Through a continuous build-up of knowledge, the research offers alternative answers and applications to the generic, standardized building systems that dominate most of today’s built environment, constrain architectural creativity, and limit innovative design approaches. An essential aspect of the research is examining material behavior and control in the physical and digital environment, its interdependencies, and how those influence our understanding of making, perception, precision, and craftsmanship. The research investigates further the anomalies, constraints, and opportunities in the field of digital production and speculates on future trajectories in terms of performance and application. Intending to generate novel solutions and spaces for ceramic building materials, the research also incorporates structural, formal, and environmental parameters, taking advantage of today’s capacity in computation and automation. Lastly, the research examines the role of the architect through new practice models in the context of developing this new craft.