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Floppy Lab is a research lab between RMIT Architecture and RMIT Fashion and Textile design co-led by Dr Leanne Zilka and Dr Jenny Underwood. It researches techniques and technologies in the fashion and textile world and adapts them for use in the built environment. Using this research to create novel approaches to the fabrication of complex form, non-structural or Floppy materials, advanced fibre-based technologies, habitat development through textiles, and bio-textile applications, to solve problems in the built environment that include urban shade solutions, retrofitting of obsolete buildings, development of organic materials to support habitats, textile waste as applied to buildings. We believe the challenge our buildings, spaces and clothing face requires the harnessing of knowledge. techniques and technologies across disciplines to enrich the tools available to meet these challenges.   

We operate at the innovative intersection of architecture and advanced textiles, pioneering a bi-directional exchange that translates fashion methodologies, including draping, tailoring, and patterning, into structural architectural provocations, while deploying computational design and digital fabrication back into fashion/textile ideas. We seek to bridge radical material experimentation with a deep understanding of complex compliance and regulatory conditions to turn non-standard geometries into buildable realities. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, we develop custom digital workflows and harness novel materials to deliver experimental, public-facing solutions to the most complex spatial challenges facing modern cities.  Our partners include Tensys, AllZone Architects, AECOM, OASIS Tension Structures, NGV, MPavilion, Gardner Group, Polimi textile hub.

Find us on instagram: @floppy_lab

NEWS
2026 - Floppy-Lab included in the Venturous: Design Practice Research Futures in Architecture and Urban Design exhibition at the Design Hub Gallery, RMIT University. opens 30.7.2026
2026 - Collaboration with Melbourne University, Burnley Campus testing textiles with planting. Assoc. Prof Claire Farrell 
2026 - External Examiner - Polimi, Textile Hub, Architecture
2025 - Lecture at Pen State University
2024 - Venice Biennale  - RetroFITting - lecture
more coming...