FABRIC-CLAY-TION explores the interaction between clay and fabric formwork. It aims to create an architectural tool for catalysing innovation in sustainable design and clay casting. Beyond conventional clay casting methods, the use of fabric as formwork is an opportunity for simple and cost-effective, yet adaptable, fabrication workflows. Cooperating with the materiality of clay, its thermal performance is embedded in its potential for thermoregulation capabilities.

The project culminates an investigation of surface geometry, as well as fabrication and assembly methods. The component curvature is facilitated by gravity while the beetle-inspired surface pattern is dictated through stitching control points on the fabric using CNC-sewing (computerised numeric control) for high precision. The fabric mould is pressure cast to enhance production speed, control mass, and investigate elasticity limits. The glazing reflects the hydrophobic and hydrophilic material dichotomy of clay to respond to local weather conditions. The uncertainty in clay shrinkage is resolved in the flexible assembly of 3D-printed thermoplastic joints.