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
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
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
3D Print Affordable Pocket Neighborhood ICON Initiative 99 Phase One Honorable Mention in the Student Category Problematic Statement In today’s urban landscape, digital nomads, engaged professionals, and couples face a growing challenge in securing affordable housing that aligns with their dynamic lifestyles. As the demand for affordable housing intensifies, the conventional housing market often falls … Read more
The brief asked for the design of a student housing facility in Barcelona, that would be 3D printed out of earth material. A previously studied module considered as a stand-alone pavilion was adapted, varied and proliferated in order to scale up the structure. Location Given the context of Barcelona and the required function for the … Read more
Support & scaffolding during consolidation of clay printing are quintessential to push the boundaries and capabilities of earthen architecture because, with said added support, opportunities for large spans, high arches, aggregated arches, and other structural phenomena arise. The options invented over time are diverse and, regardless of the used material, they can be very insightful … Read more
