Conventional construction systems have been using the same materials and processes for decades despite advances in material technology, digital integration and advanced manufacturing have been adopted by other industries. One example is fibre composite technologies which combine fabrics woven from carbon, basalt, flax, or hemp with resins to create lightweight and strong materials.
In this project, we experiment with how a lightweight and portable walling system could help to transform office buildings, left empty in the CBD such as the ICI house tower due to COVID, to give them functions such as temporary living solutions.
Balcony and shading system
Sequence of wall systems arriving on site.
Having fibre composite panels that are designed in size and weight to fit into elevators for easy transportation to each floor. All construction is done from the in-side out, avoiding the need for cranes. Raised flooring panels integrate electrical and hydraulic services, allowing the centralised services core of the office buildings to be distributed to new apartments. The system will contain Lightweight fibre composite panels, installed from inside the building, attach to existing structure and provide shading and privacy for apartments. In addition, the lightweight wall panels are movable and operable.
Home mode
Work mode
ICI House (Orica House)
Ameil Mekha, Balcony and shading system
Ameil Mekha, Sequence of wall systems arriving on site.
Ameil Mekha, Home mode
Ameil Mekha, Work mode
Ameil Mekha, ICI House (Orica House)
In the spirit of reconciliation Monash University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
