Designing complex surfaces from tessellating parts.

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Tessellating parts can be created from any planar polygonal shape. The shape, curvature and size of these parts determine if the result is a close match to an input geometry or an abstract interpretation.

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TESSA is a geometric method for the creation of Families of Parts that tessellate in three dimensions.

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TESSA is a tool to discretise a given freeform surface or to define a new surface from the ground up using a Family of Parts.

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TESSA can be a material product developed by setting up a manufacturing and construction process which complies with the rules of the method.

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TESSA is a design service covering all aspects of the method and tools.

“Beauty comes from coherence and balance in the relationship between the whole and its parts, both in its appearance and in its response to functional requirements.”

Drawn from Professor Phillip Steadman

Designing cost-effective structures through precise detailing and control of repetition.

  • Quick design development Using discrete local geometries in TESSA enables efficient design development. Design and analysis cycles are possible without the need to post-process the geometry of a design model.
  • Economic and sustainable Repeating elements in building designs helps to achieve economic and sustainable designs. The reuse of tooling paths and formworks in the manufacturing process means that individual elements can have complex shapes without compromising cost efficiency.
  • Improved constructability In-plan assembly improves constructability; fewer support structures are required and no rotation, tilting or shifting is necessary.

The TESSA principle can be applied to develop:

  • Building envelopes
  • Roofs
  • Façades
  • Sub-structures
  • Formwork
  • Partitions
  • Internal cladding
  • Architectural ceilings
  • Floor and wall tiling

“TESSA is a very clever and very simple method. I don’t see it as a rationalisation tool. I see very clearly how one can create signature designs using it. I absolutely congratulate you on this system.”

Patrik Schumacher of Zaha Hadid Architects

“TESSA is a very clever and very simple method. I don’t see it as a rationalisation tool. I see very clearly how one can create signature designs using it. I absolutely congratulate you on this system.”

Patrik Schumacher of Zaha Hadid Architects

“TESSA is a very clever and very simple method. I don’t see it as a rationalisation tool. I see very clearly how one can create signature designs using it. I absolutely congratulate you on this system.”

Patrik Schumacher of Zaha Hadid Architects

Node 1

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 2

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 3

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 4

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 5

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 6

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 7

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 8

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Node 9

Frame is an example application of TESSA that comprises nine different deep-profiled nodes. Each node type has four fins; when connected they form an open frame structure with a square grid in plan. All or a subset of the nine node types are combined to show a variety of configurations.

Designing architectural surfaces which are complex and aesthetically pleasing yet simple and economical to construct is a major challenge in the engineering design industry. TESSA addresses this by allowing complex surfaces to be realised from simple and repeating parts. 

Contact us if you have any questions, wish to collaborate with us or are interested in the technology.

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