Tessellated, Tiled, and Woven Surfaces in Architecture

Abstract

This chapter is focused on the tessellation, tiling, and weaving of architectural surfaces. These three processes result in the production of a geometric pattern of connected shapes which cover a plane. In architecture, such techniques are typically employed to create a more durable or weatherproof finish for a floor, wall, or ceiling. But they also provide a means of decorating a surface to achieve an aesthetic, poetic, or symbolic outcome, some of which are used to evoke particular mathematical properties. This chapter provides an overview of the development of architectural tiling, highlighting key connections to mathematics. The architectural examples range from simple Neolithic weaving and stone cutting practices to late twentieth century aperiodic cladding systems in major public buildings. The chapter also refers to past research into tiling in architecture and the primary themes which have been examined in the past.