2022 Architectural Portfolio

Inaugurated as the first 3D printed earth construction in Spain, the project was undertaken as a collective design and self build project by the IAAC 3DPA students 2021-22’. The small scale project is sophisticated in it’s approach to sustainability; using quantitative additive manufacturing; locally sourced clay from the site; and in integrating performative design strategies as informed by climatic conditions.

Natural lighting in architecture is essential as it provides visual comfort, reduces the amount of conventional energy used and, at the same time, diminishes thermal gains indoors caused by artificial lighting. According to Millet (1996), For all light sources, the luminous effect depends upon four factors: the source (its intensity, its directional characteristics, its color); the geometry (its relationship between the source and the receiver or receiving surface); the surfaces that receive and modify light, becoming secondary light sources in themselves by reflecting, redirecting, and coloring light.

This studio design project in 3D printing architecture purposes to take a speculative approach in the potential and practicality in undertaking design and construction using the technique in various contexts. The challenges highlighted in case here are the steep terrain, response to climate; high rainfall and high humidity. The project aims at demonstrating how the technique can lend itself in addressing these challenges.

Culture plays a powerful role in promoting socio-economic welfare and national cohesion for sustainable development; this is possible through identifying and valorising own cultural assets. The project being located in semi-rural and culturally rich Machakos aims to highlight on the contribution of the people’s material culture; preserve their craftsmanship heritage; and create employment for the local population through rural tourism.