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Abstract:This paper discusses the development of fabric formwork from a textile perspective, where the adoption of more sophisticated textile construction proposes the manufacture of new types of flexible and embedded fabric formworks for potential use in the construction Industry. These include fibre systems for reinforcing building components, containment structures arranged with open cavities to accept in-fill and layered geo-textiles. In-filled with concrete, aggregate or earth, tailored performance characteristics built-into the textile design can enhance the overall properties of formwork elements. The developments provide key pointers for the progression of the discipline and automation of the process. The cross-discipline group funded under the EPSRC LimesNet International Research Mission 'Structural Woven Formwork' enabled the authors to investigate textiles specifically for use in construction formwork and reinforcement. Collectively, they identified a range of established textile reinforcements of interest, including lightweight woven fabrics, plant fibre materials, mattress fabrics and geo-grid retention structures. Textiles needed to respond to requirements for material efficiency, improved integrity, and contribute to reducing environmental impact. This research proposes new flexible formwork concepts including layered fabrics, designed with anisotropic properties providing enhanced structural performance, permeability and surface finish in comparison to properties found in commercial off-theshelf fabrics. The proposal introduces dual-function fabrics that provide both permanent formwork and internal reinforcement, where the outer fabric skin is interlinked or stitched with an internal system of textile reinforcement. Described as permanently participating, these structural formworks comprise robust internal woven reinforcement and cavity systems to enhance strength. Matched with specific formwork casting and construction methods, these structures propose to enhance and progress the scope, scale and performance of current formwork, or enable new structures that are difficult to achieve presently.