ALUMINIUM FO(A/R)M

Eine gestalterische Auseinandersetzung mit Aluminiumschaumplatten

Leopold Kürschner

März 2025

Bauhaus-Universität Weimar

Description

ALUMINIUM FO(A/R)M stages aluminium foam panels (AFP) within the context of furniture to highlight the positive circular economy properties of the material. These relate to the use of high proportions of recycled aluminium in the manufacturing process as well as the material-saving nature of the substance.

The designed side table demonstrates a structural solution that enables AFP to be connected with other components. A structure is integrally bonded to the AFP using aluminium casting. After processing the structure, the composite — here used as a tabletop — can be integrated into a construction system.

The design combines traditional foundry craftsmanship with digital fabrication. First, the pore structure of the AFP is analysed, and based on this, the cutting of the panel material is optimised. The result is an object with a variable shape that follows a logic of non-standardised seriality.