Bamboo in architecture and construction. Why its use?

Often cited as a vernacular and sustainable building technique, bamboo is a tough and versatile natural material
that can be used both as a structure and as a finish. In this article, we will present its variety of uses in some
experiences in collective spaces.

Historically, they have been used as raw material for various utilitarian objects, such as musical instruments and
furniture, and also in the construction of shelters. Recently, its use in civil construction has been more debated
by technicians and academia based on experiences that seek to connect with a more vernacular architecture
with less impact on the environment.
At the same time, it is a natural material that can act structurally, resisting tensions and compressions, as well as
having thermal insulating qualities and being easy to handle. In turn, it offers easy integration with other
materials such as steel, stone and masonry, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities. Used in small-scale
projects, such as residences, the versatility of bamboo is an important characteristic when considering projects
for public and collective use.
Bamboo has always been part of architecture as a construction material but, from the TED channel conference
(later video) by the designer Laura Hardy, we will begin to understand that its usefulness as a structural element
is impressive.

Experimentation with this cane material in structures is surprising even the most avant-garde architects who
see a new opportunity to build cheaper and totally sustainable homes.

The good results of bamboo in construction are opening up new perspectives of using similar materials such as
cane or wicker, which are traditionally more derived in objects, to propose new uses, abilities and
functionalities.
It has been shown over the centuries that bamboo constructions are resistant and last over the years, especially
in areas of Asia where this material is abundant and widely used locally.
CHARACTERISTICS OF BAMBOO AS A MATERIAL:
Although it may seem disconcerting in some technical aspects, it performs better than wood itself, concrete and
even steel.
Using bamboo in architecture can bring multiple benefits, especially from an environmental perspective without
losing the capabilities of a resistant and economically viable material. So let's see the advantages of building
with rods:

The growth of bamboo is very fast. It achieves an approximate yield of 3.3 times that of wood, without counting
the benefits that occur in the face of soil desertification and deforestation.
It does not produce waste. It is totally biodegradable.
It requires little energy for its production, with a low ecological footprint that helps reduce CO2 emissions
compared to traditional concrete.
In bamboo in construction, due to its fibrous composition, it allows longitudinal and transverse cuts.
Because it has a hollow interior, that is, the weight of the material is very light, achieving light structures, and
also, it is much easier to transport.
It has a high resistance to traction comparable to steel, and to compression, comparable to concrete
Due to its flexibility, resistance and toughness capabilities, it is an excellent material for all types of furniture,
structures, coatings, drains, etc.