Hygroscopy
This project explores how materials respond to humidity level and how to apply it to create interesting structures. Two types of wood, birch and walnut, were examined under constant temperature and changing moisture levels. The absorption of water triggered the bending behaviors of the wood. The result indicated that the degree of bending introduced by the increase in humidity is related to both the direction of the grain and the shape of the veneer. Based on the observations, an assembly of birch veneers with various curvatures were designed to create a surface of dynamic apertures whose opening and closing behaviors respond to the humidity levels. This concept, despite its simplicity, has potential in creating sustainable structures that changes forms without external mechanical forces.

Instructor: Kathy Velikov
Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning
University of Michigan