Taylor Gilbert: Time Tension Wood

The young designer's graduate thesis at Design Academy Eindhoven proposes a construction system — consisting of brackets, ropes, and freshly cut wooden poles — inspired by a Native American Indian bow-making technique.

American designer Taylor Gilbert has recently presented his thesis project Time Tension Wood at the Design Academy Eindhoven 2012 graduation show. Time Tension Wood is a construction system based on a bow-making technique used by Native American Indians. By applying consistent tension to freshly cut wood, it will slowly and gradually bend as it dries, over the course of three to five months. Once the wood is dry, the structure becomes permanent, and the ropes can be removed.

Conceived as a kit of parts, the construction system consists of brass brackets and ropes with a simple tension mechanism, used to easily connect and manipulate freshly cut wooden poles. These components can be used to make a variety of objects and structures, from a coat rack and tabletop supports, to space dividers and even small-scale architecture.

Since the method relies on the natural properties of the wood, there is no need for steam, heat, or any special equipment. Almost any kind of wood can be used, which allows for the majority of the material to be sourced locally.

The project aims to provide a tangible experience of time and duration through the use of a natural material. The objects and structures made with this system are the result of the cooperation between the natural and unpredictable properties of the wood, the control of the applied tension, and the time necessary for the process.

Custom constructions and objects can be made in addition to an expanding line of objects produced by the designer. The first object be made available is a coat rack that uses strategically placed ropes to create gradually increasing curves on the top, while maintaining a level bottom.