Pioneering Timber Engineering at the Venice Biennale
In 2016, Ergodomus Timber Engineering embarked on an extraordinary journey with the creation of the Makoko Floating School II, a floating pavilion for the Venice Biennale of Architecture. This project was not only our first international experience but also a testament to our pioneering spirit in applying what we now recognize as Design for Manufacture and Assembly with Disassembly (DfMA(d)) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) in timber engineering—even though these concepts were not commonly known in the building industry at the time.
A Naive Leap into Innovation
When we accepted the assignment, we did so with a sense of naive enthusiasm and immense excitement to work in such a unique setting. Little did we know the complexities that awaited us, but our passion drove us forward. This opportunity allowed us to learn how Venice truly works, offering an incredible experience to see the city not as tourists, but as participants in its living, breathing ecosystem.
A Race Against Time and the Birth of Innovation
We were approached by the Biennale organizers just six weeks before the vernissage—a project of this magnitude and complexity would typically require at least three to four months. Accepting the challenge, we dove headfirst into intensive work, acting as contractors by coordinating assemblers and suppliers for timber and steel. Our team worked tirelessly in the office, and when it was time for assembly, we relocated to Venice to collaborate directly with the assemblers. For two weeks, we worked side by side under a scorching sun (we were all sunburned by evening) and heavy rain, making swift decisions on-site due to the limited time for detailed assembly drawings.
Engineering a Floating Masterpiece
Starting from the 3D model provided by Nigerian architect Kunlé Adeyemi and his team at NLÉ Works, we engineered a structure inspired by the original Makoko Floating School in Lagos—a solution designed to withstand flooding and provide uninterrupted education for children. The Venice iteration required the pavilion to float on 256 plastic barrels arranged in a 16×16 matrix, using readily available materials.
Engineering a structure on the mainland is challenging enough; engineering one that floats on water is exponentially more complex. The use of commercial food-grade plastic barrels as flotation devices added another layer of complexity. We had to consider all the forces acting on the structure, taking into account the global behavior, especially when subjected to asymmetric actions like uneven loads or wind forces. And we accomplished all of this in an incredibly short time!
The entire structure was constructed from larch timber and deep galvanized steel. Remarkably, the project involved more than 2,000 timber elements and over 5,000 steel components! We chose larch for its durability and weight, ensuring longevity despite being a temporary structure intended for future disassembly. The use of a timber frame structure exemplified our expertise in innovative construction methods.
Our Scope of Work
Our comprehensive involvement in the project encompasses: Structural Analysis, Value Engineering, and Detailing and Connection Design.
Overcoming Logistical Challenges in Venice
Working in Venice is akin to operating on Mars—logistics are incredibly complex due to the city’s unique landscape. We believe that designing pavilions represents the pinnacle of DfMA, as they often involve tight constraints and demand innovative solutions. The Makoko Floating School II was no exception.
We decided to assemble the structure on the mainland, performing initial lifting tests to ensure safety. The completed structure, weighing over 20 tons, was then transported via a large barge to the Arsenale. A crane, which followed on a second barge, lifted the pavilion and gently placed it into the water. We conducted flotation tests while the structure remained tethered to the crane for safety, and upon successful results, we witnessed the pavilion afloat—a moment of immense pride and emotion.
This hands-on experience allowed us to truly understand the intricacies of Venice, offering insights that went far beyond typical engineering challenges. It was amazing to see the city from this new perspective, enriching both our professional and personal lives.
An Award-Winning Achievement
Our hard work and innovative approach were recognized when the Makoko Floating School II was awarded the prestigious Silver Lion at the Venice Biennale. This accolade was a super exciting achievement for our team, affirming our commitment to pushing the boundaries of timber engineering and sustainable design. Standing in the front row at the vernissage, witnessing the official launch and receiving such an honor, was a profound moment that validated all the challenges we overcame.
Look at the 3D Digital Model we made
We shared this Digital Model via Speckle
Acknowledgments and Team Effort
We owe a debt of gratitude to Luca and Eros of Holz Snc, the best assemblers we’ve ever met, who worked tirelessly alongside us. Special thanks to Enzo Bozza, the timber supplier, whose kindness and dedication were instrumental at every step of the project.
Scope of Work and Technological Pioneering
Our scope of work encompassed structural analysis, value engineering, connection design, assembly drawings, logistics, supplier coordination, and project management. Utilizing BIM and our early adoption of a DfMA(d) approach—even before these concepts were widely recognized in the building industry—we demonstrated that with innovative methods, even the most ambitious projects could be delivered within tight timeframes.
This project proved to us that DfMA is the future of construction, transcending borders and enabling international collaboration. The lessons learned and the knowledge gained have significantly improved our workflows over the past decade, and they continue to influence our approach to complex projects today.
A Passion for DfMA and Pavilions
At Ergodomus Timber Engineering, we are passionate about designing pavilions and thrive on the challenges they present. We believe that pavilions represent the peak of DfMA, requiring holistic thinking and innovative solutions within constrained environments. We’re always ready to work on pavilions, no matter where they are, because DfMA has no borders.
Regardless of your role or project scope, Ergodomus is dedicated to delivering customized solutions that ensure excellence and success in every timber project we undertake.
If you’re envisioning a pioneering project that pushes the boundaries of design and engineering, Ergodomus Timber Engineering is here to bring that vision to life. We’re always ready to work on pavilions internationally because DfMA has no borders. Contact us today, and let’s embark on an extraordinary journey together.
Ready to work together?
Conclusion
The Makoko Floating School II was dismantled after six months, as initially planned, but its impact endures. Receiving the Silver Lion award was a highlight that underscored the project’s success and our team’s dedication. The experience symbolized not just the culmination of an intense and rewarding project but also the embodiment of innovation, collaboration, and the future of timber engineering.
Accepting the assignment with naive excitement allowed us to embark on a journey of discovery and innovation. Learning how Venice operates from the inside was an amazing experience that enriched our understanding of both engineering and the world.
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