By Monisha Sridhara – Tutor: Nikoletta Karastathi, Arthur Prior
The project Ceram-Screens by Monisha Sridhara draws inspiration from traditional stone-carved Jaali screens, commonly found in Indian architecture. These ornamental structures serve a dual function, providing light and heat control by reducing solar glare and enhancing ventilation. Originally crafted from natural materials like stone and wood, their intricate design is meant to produce cooler air by utilizing the principle of contraction—allowing hot air to contract as it passes through their small openings, becoming cooler.
Extensive standardization and industrialization have led to the loss of the artisan skill originally required for this technique, that has since loss its original function flexibility and character.
The aim of the project is to restore this traditional technique through the utilization of ceramic 3D printing, a production system that allows for full customization and replicability, overcoming the limitations established by standardized manufacturing methods. The study explores the potential of additive manufacturing to enhance current construction techniques and create improved spaces and façades in terms of interior lighting, ventilation, and privacy.
After a process of experimentation, the chosen shape for the module was a frustum conical form with an opening at the bottom, capable of redirecting both wind flow and light while maintaining visual privacy. A 3D model was developed for specific data testing, such as micro-climatic conditions, façade orientation, solar radiation, and wind velocity analysis.
The modules were printed in clay using the Delta WASP 40100 Clay and later glazed to increase the structure’s resistance. The pieces were then assembled using cement mortars and showcased at the Bartlett Fifteen Show.
