Architecture in 3D

Over the course of the last 25 years JL Architects has seen the advent and avid use of the CAD (Computer Aided Design) from the once staple of hand drafted blue prints. In fact, our firm began because of the John's forethought to "sell" CAD as a tool for designing retail spaces. His idea took off and so did our client roster. In recent years those in the industry have been migrating to BIM software (Building Information Modeling) which helps to design a building with an integrated vision of the architects and the engineers. The design team builds the project digitally as a collaborative process to reduce problems in the field. It's a virtual 3D drawing of the building, and now leading designers are taking that 3D model and attempting to create a "3D print" of the space. There aren't many that are joining in this race, but it is a fire that is fueling a couple of firms!

Enrico Dini's 3D Printer

One of the largest 3D printers in the world is just outside in Pisa, Italy. The printer was invented by robotics engineer Enrico Dini and it uses sand along with a binding agent to create a "stone" material. The gantry style printer is housed in a warehouse and can produce up to 30 cubic meters of printed forms per week! He printed the first architectural structure in 2009 with architect Andrea Morgante. The project printed was a 3 meter high pavilion which resembled an egg. With advancements in technology like this, the world of architecture is exploding with possibility and promise!

 

Andrea Morgante's "Egg" Pavilion

  
 
If you like to learn more about the architects that are participating in this race, then click on the links below and indulge your imagination!
The Man Who Prints Houses

3D Printer could Build Moon Bases

Landscape House

Protohouse – Softkill Design

 
Happy Reading!
Sharlee K. Van Tine, LEEP AP



Landscape House