T-shade: experimental case study conducted to reuse t-shirts as a tensile-shading system

The T-Shade system is a sustainable and cost-effective solution for urban shading constructed from fashion waste that reduces the adverse effects of solar radiation and brings comfort to urban environments. This paper presents the development, evaluation, and potential of the TShade system, which is designed and structurally analyzed using computational algorithms and form-finding methods. Experimental studies have shown that T-Shade can effectively reduce the amount of solar radiation entering the building while preserving daylighting conditions, and its modularity enables it to be easily installed and adapted to various urban contexts and dimensions. The system was constructed in 2021 at the campus of Politecnico di Milano, demonstrating its real-world application. T-Shade aims to address the increasing demand for sustainable shading systems by promoting comfort and sustainability in urban areas by combining functionality, sustainability, and affordability. The proposed solution is an example of how upcycling practices can lead to innovative and sustainable solutions for urban challenges. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of sustainable shading systems and the role of upcycling practices in promoting sustainable practices in urban areas.