Taylor Leung partners to turn polyester waste into architectural materials

Designer Taylor Leung of 12103 Design Studio has launched project “Fast Fashion Architecture” in collaboration with researchers from The Bartlett School of Architecture. The project focuses on developing architectural materials from heat-fused polyester textiles.

The project uses heat to transform polyester fibers into materials that can be used for architectural applications. The textile waste is sorted, cut and compressed inside mild-steel cages, where heat causes the thermoplastic fibers to bond together. The resulting material is colorful and porous while retaining the patterns and textures of the original garments.

A modified desktop 3D printer is used as an important part of the process through what the researchers describe as a “digital soldering” method. Custom G-code controls the printer’s heated tips as they move across the compressed textile material. This allows the researchers to control factors such as temperature, material density and bonding patterns. The process also helps maintain the individual appearance of each textile unit while providing greater control and consistency during production.

The material has a wide range of possible applications. Early experiments explored its use in furniture, including chairs, as well as larger structures. One of the major demonstrations was a full-scale prototype shelter built at Grymsdyke Farm. The structure uses a CNC-cut timber frame and a pyramid-like form, showing how textile waste could potentially be developed into larger architectural systems.