The tectonic culture of Reed—explorations into a biogenic architecture for the future

This article presents a retrospective analysis of the practice-based research project Burned & Bundled – Unfolding the Will of the Material (2022–23), which explores the tectonic potentials of reed as a sustainable building material in present construction industry. The project resulted in creating full-scale building elements displayed at the exhibition Reset Materials – Toward Sustainable Architecture at Copenhagen Contemporary 2023. The research project was driven by the imperative not to use materials that are depleting resources or affecting ecological systems negatively. Thus, reed was investigated due to its relevance as a biogenic material. The tectonic and cultural dimensions of reed applied for construction have been emphasized, aiming to uncover both the opportunities and challenges associated with using the material in present-day architecture. The experiments included traditional craft techniques such as sowing and bundling in combination with prefabrication methods, resulting in innovative façade panels and structural arches. In addition, application of natural fire retardants to the facade panels, was conducted in collaboration with the Danish Institute of Fire and Security. In sum, the research highlights reed's potentials in contemporary building practices. The article situates this research within the broader context of architectural theory, particularly examining the development of a traditional craft within the contemporary construction industry – the evolution of a craft. When designing and experimenting with reed as a contemporary material rather than a relic of the past, the project contributes to a renewed understanding of reed’s relevance in sustainable architecture, advocating for its tectonic and tactile re-integration into present-day building culture.