The lab that's betting on low-tech

From the Saint Loup Chapel in Pompaples to the soon-to-be-completed Vidy Theatre Pavilion in Lausanne, the lab run by Yves Weinand is developing new innovations based on an age-old material: wood. A newly published book highlights the lab's most important discoveries, for scientists and wood-industry professionals alike. Taking inspiration from origami, basket-weaving, and the history of carpentry, researchers at EPFL's Laboratory for Timber Constructions (IBOIS) have used 'low-tech' wood to develop innovative structures and architectural concepts that are not only modern and stylish, but also durable and uniquely original. Laboratory head Yves Weinand has just published a book showcasing the lab's main innovations over his ten years-plus at EPFL. His book aims to build awareness about the many advancements in wood-based technology in his lab and demonstrate wood's potential as the construction material of the future. What was your main priority when you joined EPFL in 2005? Our aim was to develop contemporary architectural designs based on timber, so as to encourage its use as a building material. We wanted people to look beyond the traditional chalet style that is typically associated with wood.