Shell Lace Structure

An architecture practice has revealed a new single-surface structural technique inspired by nature.

Tonkin Liu worked with Arup to develop ‘Shell Lace Structure’, which takes inspiration from the super-strength and lightness of mollusc shells.

Shell Lace Structure uses optimised curvilinear geometry combined with corrugation for a strong, robust form, whilst ‘strategically placed’ perforations ensure that the structures remain lightweight.

A combination of digital modelling and engineering analysis was used to create the technique, which also allows users to cut shapes from sheets of material.

Find out more about Shell Lace Structure here.