smart masonry by dmytro zhuikov & arina agieieva of ZA architects

smart masonry by dmytro zhuikov & arina agieieva of ZA architects
all images/visuals courtesy of ZA architects

the ‘smart masonry’ project was undertaken as the masters theses’ of dmytro zhuikov and arina agieieva, who together form ZA architects. the developed work describes a refreshed perspective on structural design and construction methods, based primarily on traditional masonry techniques. thanks to digital optimization, it proposes a way to drastically reduce weight and material loads of building infrastructure, and uses robotics rather than people to assemble complex forms.

sample building interior 

‘smart masonry’ can be composed of one seamless mesh that constitutes an entire structure, forgoing walls, columns, support beams, etc. zhuikov and agieieva derived the concept from naturally occurring system — where geometry is based on creating as optimally as possible, with as little as possible. the masonry itself represents this methodology, and can be produced quickly with relatively simple techniques.

created ‘smart masonry’ form  

each ‘cell’ that constitutes a structure is made from a rubber-derived foam substance. a 4-axis hot-wire cuts the form using a computer model as guide, enabling complex shapes in very little time. the piece is then saturated with a mixture of portland cement and left to harden; different foam porosities equate to various final performances. once cured, the masonry is finished and ready to be taken to the site. it is believed by zhuikov and agieieva that such a method will greatly increase construction speed, while decreasing energy and material expenditure. 

the complex geometry is made using computer algorithms 

interior of made structure 

sequence 

pattern layers 

rubber-based foam panel curing  

fabrication

construction 

plan

section

masterplan

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: nick brink | designboom