3D envelope - 3D-Printed Functional Geometries for Building Envelopes

WHY?

3d-printing offers new potentials in fabrication, prototyping or small series in the small scale is already competitive and the digital chain (from digital design to product) is closed by using less resources. The majority of buildings are prototypes, which means they differ in size, function and location. Material savings and process optimization are urgent topics in the building industry as well.

WHAT?

Aim of this research project is to include integrated facade-functions, material optimization and choice of material to estimate the potential of 3d-printed building envelopes. This should result not only in a 1:1 mock-up, but in a functional geometry with the chance of a new architectural language and the reduction of technical support. HOW? Different functional requirements of a building envelope are analyzed in regard of an effective functional-geometry and promising combinations are developed.

Award Winning Project

Prototypes