Weaving is not a technique traditionally linked with architectural design. Typically, weaving involves interlacing textiles, threads, or yarns to create fabric – a practice that has been integral to textile material production for millennia.

Imagine, then, applying this ancient technique to architecture using a timeless material like timber!

The remarkable ‘Weaving Waves’ pavilion by the Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) skilfully bridged the gap between traditional weaving and innovative timber design. Making its debut at Archidex 2024 – held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre – the pavilion was a breathtaking visual homage to a woven basket, meticulously crafted from intertwining Malaysian timber: Melunak.

Collaborating with the talented architect Esmonde Yap, this installation drew deep inspiration from Malaysia’s rich heritage of basket weaving, presenting a stunning artistic tribute to this age-old craft.

The transformation from design sketches to a tangible structure was realised through a partnership with timber products manufacturer, Lumber Mart Sdn Bhd. The pavilion was engineered for ease of assembly, disassembly, and re-assembly.

Despite challenges such as the weight of the timber, which required adjustments to the pavilion’s apex for stability, the result was an outstanding functional and visually striking structure.

Chosen for its strength and flexibility, Melunak proved to be the ideal material for this innovative design. The pavilion’s intricate construction showcased the softer side of timber, demonstrating its capacity to bend while preserving its structural integrity.

Machine-slit to enhance its flexibility, Melunak can be employed to create structures with a broad range of architectural possibilities.

The ‘Weaving Waves’ installation featured 10 elegantly curved ribs, ranging from 3,800-4,000mm in height. Each curve and bend were meticulously designed to create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, casting intricate patterns onto the surrounding space and enhancing the structure’s visual impact.

Complementing the structure was an 80-mm-high timber flooring, also crafted from Melunak, which enhanced the pavilion’s aesthetic appeal and provided a warm, inviting atmosphere for visitors.

Inside, guests were encouraged to engage with the structure, feeling its texture and admiring the beauty of the grain and its remarkable elasticity. ‘Weaving Waves’ won the prestigious Curated Booth Award 2024.

To explore the full potential of Malaysian timbers and their diverse applications, visit its website: https://mtc.com.my.

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