BambooU

Bamboo U is a bamboo architecture and design enterprise that focuses on sharing sustainable ways of building. It has hosted over 800 architects, designers, engineers and creatives since its inception in 2015. Bamboo courses are available on their campus in Bali, Indonesia and Online. Workshops are lead in collaboration with the renowned design firm IBUKU and bamboo experts from around the world. From growing bamboo to treatment methods, bamboo design and model making, engineering, carpentry and construction: their workshops cover all there is to know about bamboo building and design. Find our more & join a bamboo workshop here.

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Roofing Systems for Bamboo Buildings

Roofings are perhaps the most fundamental architectural element of bamboo buildings (together with foundations). Well-designed and built roofs play a key role in protecting a bamboo structure whilst adding to the beauty and experience of the space. What qualifies as a well-designed bamboo roof? 

There are a couple of key elements that need to be considered: 1) the overhangs of the roof to mitigate the weathering of bamboo poles from direct sun and rain, 2) the pitch of the roof for water flow, 3) the spacing of the rafters for rigidity, and finally, 4) the material used. In Bali, we have experimented with many different roofing materials and techniques. In this article, we share 5 of the most commonly used roofing systems for our bamboo buildings: 

How Bamboo Bends to Create Curved Structures

Bamboo has endless possibilities and when combined with creativity, it can lead to a wide range of interesting shapes. In its natural form, it is a straight, slightly tapering pole. But how do we bend it to create fluid, dynamic spaces? Bamboo is naturally flexible and can be flexed into a slight bend and simple framed structures can be built using bamboo’s natural straight form.

However, it requires specific techniques to achieve extensive curvilinear forms. In the structures we build here in Bali, there are 3 techniques to create curved structures using bamboo. These are: