Wool Tales

In this project, the design is the main actor, and the goal is to research through architectural practice on the material wools potential for architectural use. Given the complexity of architecture practice, the knowledge developed in its research does not necessarily relate to answers or results, but more to an understanding of connections and relationships. This requires questions that provide descriptions rather than explanations, and they often begin with ‘what’ or ‘how’, rather than ‘why’, which characterizes qualitative research. Furthermore, the qualitative researcher is close to what is being researched (and subjectivity is allowed), which is mostly the case in design-driven research.

I grew up in a family where the women produce woollen knitted garments for their family, and although I have not acquired this knowledge and tradition, growing up with knitted socks and sweaters with an almost eternal life through repair has made me aware of the material's (and the craft's) value. I know little about biology, the properties of wool and textile craft methods; but I am an architect and a goat farmer. This combination has given me experience and knowledge to handle a closeness to the resources and how I relate to complex systems - and not least how I can use this knowledge to design physical results that can benefit others.