Practice-based research, testing and application of fabric formwork to build reinforced concrete buildings in Cambodia

This paper follows practice-based research into fabric formwork, structural analysis and use in a ‘real-life’ project: a pair of two-storey buildings for a community centre in Cambodia (Bomnong L’Or), built in just eight weeks by a team of UK volunteers and a mix of skilled and unskilled local people. We present preparatory practice-based research and physical testing, structural modelling processes, falsework detailing and construction sequencing. Lessons learned from the construction process are presented and the benefits and challenges of using fabric formwork are discussed. Finally, we make recommendations for further work. We hope this paper demonstrates the potential of fabric formwork and encourages its use in commercial buildings. As demonstrated, the system also has benefits in a humanitarian context.