The Postgraduate in 3D Printing Architecture is a 6-month long intensive programme in the field of additive manufacturing of sustainable architecture. Between the use of advanced technology for construction and the desire to develop a holistic design approach to architecture, we engage with different areas of research that include robotic manufacturing, material research and performance-based design. The programme seeks to develop technological and architectural solutions in collaboration with Industry partners to answer the current needs and challenges of our habitat.
This study investigates door and window joints insertion solutions for 3dPA walls. Two design solutions: framed and a frameless system. The frameless design employs a biodegradable cork-based composite, while the framed configuration uses a sub-frame bonded with the same cork mixture and sand poured into the remaining gaps for stability. Both methods improve structural integration … Read more
There are several established building standards for earthen construction and for concrete 3D printed construction (3DPC). However, earthen 3D printing lacks global standards that define how materials should be tested, certified, or approved for construction. As a result, each project is evaluated independently, often referencing foreign or unrelated standards — this slows innovation and increases … Read more
Introduction & Problem Statement Earthen 3D printing offers a low-carbon, recyclable, and locally sourced alternative to conventional construction materials. However, its architectural use remains limited by a critical issue: wet-state instability during printing. Freshly extruded clay has very low strength and stiffness, so walls usually reach only 15–20 cm per day. Beyond this height, the … Read more
This research focuses on one of the main limitations of 3D printing with earth: low stability in the wet state. Today, the maximum daily printing height is around 20 cm, which limits construction efficiency. This project explores how to improve wet-state stability to enable taller, faster, and more consistent earthen walls. STATE OF THE ART … Read more
WEEK 1 : MATTER This week , Series of experiments were conducted with Secil Afsar and Amanda . Students of 3DPA pre-course were introduced to the physical concepts that relate to the mechanical properties of 3D-printed clay and earthen structures. The project aims to define and improve the performance of earthen materials used in 3D … Read more
In Valldoreix, nestled in the mountains of Barcelona, a unique housing project is taking shape at the intersection of nature and innovation. Designed to eventually grow and accommodate various family models, the project unfolds along what can be imagined as an impressively long 3D-printed wall with breaks for circulation, winding veins to create a village-like … Read more
Sustainable Design for Six This project envisions a 3D-printed earth construction, designed for six residents, blending comfortable living with adaptable workspaces for creative professionals, all while maintaining energy efficiency and grid connectivity. We aim to create a sustainable and dynamic community hub within an urban environment. Site Location: La Florista Passive Climate Design: Adapting to … Read more
A Living System in the Hills of Barcelona Nestled between rolling hills and the city, this 3D-printed, earth-built settlement revives Catalan traditions sustainably. The Masia, a historic Catalan farmhouse. Which is developed through additive earth construction using local soil and modern techniques. More than a settlement, it is a living system where visitors learn to … Read more
This academic year, the 3DPA program focused on the theme Performative Earth Construction, guiding the work from research to design and construction.Following the projects Tova and Texit pavilions, two enclosed spaces built on the Forest Campus, the aim is to explore how 3D printing with earth can be used on a larger scale while responding … Read more
The Artist’s House is designed for an artist couple and their two children. The house is divided into 3 main entities: the living area, the studio and the artist house, separated by a central patio. The studio accommodates two distinct spaces tailored to the needs of each artist. One is a sculptor and/or painter who … Read more
3DPA 2024-25 Faculty : Secil Afsar Guest Faculty : Amanda Rivera INTRODUCTION Matrix of material design strategy for 3DPA 2024-2025 ANALYSIS OF PREVIOUS YEARS Mixing strategies from the previous protoypes of 3DPA EXPECTED IMPROVEMENTS Matrix for default design strategies from previous years, and areas for future improvement MATTER RESEARCH Testing different matter mixes, and additives … Read more
Ventilation is a broad and complex field of study that is linked to heat, humidity, air density and geometry. As this project took place over a six week period we narrowed our focus to a small section of this field of study. The main concepts being intake typology, internal pipe length, and cross ventilation opportunities. … Read more
Research questions What role does the geometry of 3D-printed patterns play in reducing water erosion in earth walls? How do concave, convex, and flat patterns in 3D-printed walls differ in their ability to manage rainwater flow? Can we reduce the surface area we coat on 3d printed walls and how does this vary across different … Read more
Hypothesis: By integrating controlled extrusion and topological optimization into 3D printing processes, it is possible to significantly enhance structural efficiency, reduce material usage, and simplify toolpaths. By drawing insights from nature and leveraging data-driven design and analysis, this method enables the creation of structures that are lighter, stronger, and more resource-efficient. When applied to architecture, … Read more
Introduction – Hypothesis How can we optimize the geometry of different sections of a 3D-printed wall to adapt to varying levels of solar radiation and insulation requirements, while also reducing material usage and printing time? By deforming the infill patterns of 3D-printed earth walls, it is possible to optimize the thermal transmittance of the walls, … Read more
Hypothesis Optimizing Self-Shading in Clay 3D-Printed Geometries Methodology Incidence vector analysis:Using the position of the sun in Barcelona to simulate realistic shading.Evaluation of different vectors and orientations to identify optimal shading configurations.Geometric modification:Create geometric modifications according to vectors at a precise hour, 14:00 on 21 June and then at different hours 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00.Adjusting … Read more
