Textile forms of habitation are far from new; in fact, humans have been using fabric to create shelter for thousands of years, becoming an archetypal form of building. Today, contemporary architecture has rediscovered the principle of the tent and taken its development further, implementing new technologies to generate more advanced and durable fabrics which allow larger areas to be spanned. Becoming a highly specialized sector within the construction industry, multiple textile forms have become common in a wide range of architectural applications – not just for temporary structures, but also for permanent buildings. Apart from their use in facades, these can be utilized in interiors to create highly functional spaces with unique sensory experiences.
Essentially, fabrics can be made of almost any durable textile – like cotton, polyester, nylon chiffon, organza, or rubia – and hence come in a variety of colors, patterns, translucencies, and textures. Therefore, the material provides endless design possibilities; not only in the form of curtains, but also as practical architectural elements like partitions, ceilings, or even light and furniture pieces. With this in mind, below we explore 8 creative and inspiring applications of fabrics in interior spaces.
MiNO, Migliarino Hostel / Antonio Ravalli Architetti
