Ephemeral walls for natural, flexible living

Abstract This paper explores the feasibility of developing flexible engineered timber partitions using digital tools for adaptable and flexible housing. For the past decades, a shift in gender roles, an ageing population, new ways of forming families, globalisation and a population in constant motion, a rigid construction sector, and the way we design our cities are necessitating a change toward spaces that are adaptable to our changing needs. In order to address this need in part through flexible engineered timber partitions, extensive testing was undertaken to study the flexibility of timber through kerf patterns. These partitions folded through kerf hinges are modular, easy to fabricate, affordable, and can be placed anywhere within an apartment. Even more, as the partitions are considered a kit of parts designed to be disassembled, they can be reused in the future, promoting a circular economy. All the materials are natural. In the 21 st century, with such technological advancements, the climate emergency, and citizens in constant motion, flexibility and customisation should be at the forefront of housing design.