In a workshop organized by the Wood, Science and Wellbeing research group from the Department of Forest Sciences, Viikki Wood and Forest Innovation Hub, and Student Agents of the Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, students explored the principles and applications of self-supporting reciprocal frame (RF) structures in timber construction.
During the afternoon, students worked in groups to design and build scale models of garden pavilions using RF structures. Visiting professor Manja Kitek Kuzman served as the workshop instructor and introduced the students to her home country, Slovenia. Sari Mikkola from the International Education Services presented the various student exchange opportunities offered by the University of Helsinki.
Viikki Living Lab challenged the students to design a pavilion model suitable for Viikki’s urban green areas, such as city parks or the courtyards of local housing. The pavilion’s structure was to be designed in a way that would support the cultivation of edible plants for community use.
The student workshop combined theory, biomimicry-inspired design, and hands-on timber construction. Workshop explored natural forms, built a small timber RF model, and discussed the sustainability and structural benefits of RF systems in wood construction.
"It was a real pleasure working with such curious and engaged students in the inspiring green setting of the Viikki campus. Their creativity and teamwork made the experience truly rewarding", says Manja Kitek Kuzman.
The results of the workshop were exhibited in Viikki.