Discrete Circular Scaffolding: A reflection on discrete systems in construction

This paper discusses discrete computational design, discrete assembly logics and the discrete paradigm within the framework of architecture and construction. For the exhibition “Anonymized Exhibition Name” a large-scale exhibition structure was designed and assembled using discreteness as a guiding principle. The objectives of the discrete exhibition design itself were to exemplify a computational approach which is efficient and sustainable through its sequential assembly strategy and material choice, reducing material waste during the assembly and disassembly of the structure. To facilitate this, the realized exhibition design followed a discrete computational logic, based on the use of PERI construction scaffoldings as discrete building blocks. Wasp, a combinatorial toolkit for discrete computational design, was used for the design of this large-scale exhibition. The built exhibition structure, covering a space of 300 square meters with a total volume of 1200 cubic meters, can be considered one the largest structures built following discrete design principles through the use of the Wasp framework. The paper discusses the benefits of using standardized parts, without relying on new production lines, for a discrete aggregation logic, the strategy employed to determine the aggregation process, assembly and disassembly sequences. Additionally, the implications of using labor vs. automation for discrete assembly systems is contextualized and critically reviewed. As discreteness is one of the reoccurring themes in recent and current discourse on architectural design and theory, the paper additionally frames the discrete computational design strategies utilized within the ongoing debate. Through this, the notion of discreteness and its implementation within practice is discussed critically, addressing future implementation opportunities and challenges.