Architectural Design Theory

Professor Kaoru Suehiro

Assistant Professor Fumihiko Shiwa

　The Suehiro laboratory focuses on “structure” as a keyword to study architectural design. This term of “structure” is interpreted as a comprehensive conception, not merely meaning mechanical or dynamic structures nor building construction methods. The conception of “structure” includes the structure of human society, which exists as a background for mathematical and mechanical special structure and architectures. As a methodological exploration, the approach of structuralism is included.

　Furthermore, we have performed continuous projects since the natural disaster of Kumamoto Earthquake 2016. The KASEI (Kyushu Architectural Students Supporters Environmental Improvement) project was established for environmental improvements of temporary housing, which was organized by university students studying in Kyushu as its main members. From perspectives of the science of architecture, we have engaged in collaborative activities of systems or programs to improve life environments of the people living in the region of the disaster. We hope to stay on their side to mitigate their pains with our long-term goal.

　I operate Built Environment Center with Art & Technology (BeCAT) as an educator with a career in architecture design (https://becat.kyushu-u.ac.jp）. BeCAT, which was established in the 2021 fiscal year, is a hub for education of architecture. Research results obtained in the university are collaborated with students as a concrete project to social implementation. We attempt to create a sustainable society for the next generation.

Main Research Topic

We study supply methods, design planning and relationships between space and ways of living in the sites of the disaster regarding the following: temporary housing complexes, community space houses as an assembly facility, which is call “minna no ie, the House for Everyone”, and disaster public housings, where afflicted people can reside after the restoration.
We study building construction method to build architecture utilizing diverse materials, and explore possibilities of design. Main materials that we use are nature-derived materials such as unused wood materials and bamboo materials. Utilizing technology, we employ diverse approaches such as three-dimensional scanning, simulation technique, digital fabrication, interdependence structure, and deployment structure to explore possibilities of architecture designs that have not been realized before.

Figures Appendix
Figure 1. Shelter built using unused wood materials and PET bottles (material made from polyethylene terephthalate)
Figure 2. Baboo stage using knitting joints
Figure 3. Reciprocal frame using movable joints
Figure 4. Minna no ie, the house for everyone in the temporary housings in Komori, Nishihara-mura, Kumanoto, Japan
Figure 5. KASEI Project in Shirahata, Kosa-machi, Kumamoto, Japan
Figure 6. Wooden temporary housing in the general athletic playground in Kuma-mura, Kumamoto, Japan
Figure 7. Relocation of wooden temporary housing in Misato-machi, Kumamoto, Japan