N. Gu, S. Watanabe, H. Erhan, M. Hank Haeusler, W. Huang, R. Sosa (eds.), Rethinking Comprehensive Design: Speculative Counterculture, Proceedings of the 19th International Conference on Computer- Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia CAADRIA 2014, 211–220. © 2014, The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Hong Kong (RE)THINKING THE BRICK: DIGITAL TECTONIC MASONRY SYSTEMS MATIAS IMBERN Harvard University Graduate School of Design. Cambridge. US. mimbern@post.harvard.edu Abstract. The introduction of digital tools in the production of archi- tecture undoubtedly constitutes the main force behind contemporary architectural innovation. In addition, the interaction of digital technol- ogies with analog craft manufacturing -a rather unexplored field of study- suggests a wide range of novel opportunities. This research fo- cuses on developing a framework for deploying digital design tech- niques to the production of bricks under vernacular technology as a medium of achieving geometrical variations and functional complexi- ty in domestic-scale projects. Solid clay bricks are embedded in traditional ceramic-construction culture. Thus, this investigation faces the challenges of making a fea- sible innovative system in a country where digital fabrication is not an economically viable option, and engaging a design that can be easily implemented with current hand-labour. Consequently, the new bricks would be massively introduced in the construction market, allowing novel formal and functional possibilities for designers. Keywords. Ceramics; brick; tectonic; digital tools; fabrication; ver- nacular technology. 1. Introduction: Toward digital masonry systems Today’s explosive growth of digital technology has affected the core of ar- chitectural design. Certainly, digital tools offer new possibilities that were inconceivable only a few years ago (Picon, 2010). This research explores the creation of a new architectural language resulting from the merger of digital technology and masonry construction in order to reinforce the use of brick as a contemporary material, especially in developing countries where this raw material is widely available.