This 'Paper-Brick House' by Chinese architect Li Xinggang Atelier was constructed solely from paper boxes, paper tubes and transparent adhesive tape. It is on display this month in the Chinese pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale.
The cardboard boxes, which previously held drawing papers, function like bricks, and the cylindrical shafts that were originally paper tubes function as structural support, acting as beams, flooring and roofing.
The 'paper brick house' pays tribute to the many thousands of people who were buried after the 2008 Sichuan earthquake due to the inferior quality of the concrete buildings.
Life-Sized Paper Houses
Chinese Architect Responds to Sichuan Earthquake
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Architecture - Opportunity for architects to explore innovative materials and construction methods that promote sustainability.
2. Paper-based Construction - Potential for utilizing paper-based materials as a cost-effective and versatile alternative to traditional building materials.
3. Disaster Resilient Design - Increasing demand for designing structures that can withstand natural disasters and minimize their impact.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architects can push the boundaries of design and construction techniques to create environmentally-friendly and resilient buildings.
2. Sustainable Materials - An opportunity for manufacturers to develop and market eco-friendly and recyclable building materials.
3. Disaster Recovery - Companies specializing in disaster recovery can incorporate innovative design strategies to build more resilient communities.