SWA launched their first research stimulation grant before Christmas 2017. The winning research proposal explored Japanese joinery through the construction of a table, now displayed in and itself displaying models in SWA’s exciting exhibition lobby. The design and making of the table was driven by a curiosity of timber joinery with the ambition to learn and understand the craftsmanship involved. It uses previous research carried out for a thesis in architecture around Japanese joinery to draw attention to the importance of craftsmanship and its potential to create beautiful structures / spaces.
A Brief Introduction into Japanese Joinery
Unlike many other traditional joinery methods, Japanese joinery has up until recently remained a secretive craft amongst closely knitted carpentry families in Japan. The intricate joints are made with precision and skill, using different end, corner and intermediate joints to carefully counteract loads and torsions. Components assemble like puzzles to form intelligent structures, which are known to be amongst some of longest surviving structures today. As opposed to standard forms of timber construction, Japanese joinery does not rely on permanent fixtures such as screws, nails and glues. Instead joints are firmly secured through interlocking connections and rely on material properties to withstand forces.
Thanks to 3d visualisations, the complexities behind these forms have been revealed to crafters and makers alike, providing the potential to reintroduce Japanese joinery into buildings. Architect pioneers Shigeru Ban and Kengo Kuma use modern methods such as 3d printing to recreate traditional Japanese structures and reinvigorate their presence in modern Architectural designs.