Textile Architecture in Transition: Global Trends and Emerging Applications in Pakistan

Abstract

Abstract 

Textile architecture has emerged as a significant field in contemporary architectural design, offering lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective solutions. This paper explores the evolution of textile architecture globally and its specific development in Pakistan. The study traces the historical origins of textile-based structures, from traditional nomadic shelters to advanced tensile structures pioneered by Frei Otto. It examines the impact of technological advancements, including the use of high-performance materials and computational design, on the growth of textile architecture. In Pakistan, textile architecture has seen gradual adoption, primarily in public spaces, commercial centers, and shading systems, driven by economic and climatic factors. The paper highlights the potential for future advancements in textile architecture within Pakistan’s built environment. Through an analysis of existing literature and case studies, this research identifies key opportunities and challenges in the integration of textile-based solutions in contemporary Pakistani architecture.

Keywords: Textile Architecture, Tensile Structures, Smart Materials, Light weight Structures, Parametric Design