Alexgadea architecture

3D Printed Steel Pedestrian Bridge Will Soon Span an Amsterdam Canal

The oldest of Amsterdam’s approximately 1,280 bridges in use dates back to 1648. The city is famous for its beautiful canals and waterways, and Dutch engineers have long made their names in constructing ways around the “Venice of the North.” Tourists are encouraged to visit one particular bridge on the Herengracht canal, from which they can see 15 bridges in one view. In addition to bridges, the Netherlands has been gaining fame across the board for its reputation in the global 3D printing arena.

Softkill by students in AADRL

SoftKill researches generative methods of topological and material formation in combination with additive manufacturing through the production of a prototypical house. While traditional building processes result in substantial material wastage, from manufacturing to construction, SoftKill aims to do more with less. The project enables weak materials to become stiff structures that define qualitative spaces with an ornate character. A generative method of topological formation was developed in an attempt to negotiate space, structure and programme, while minimising the deployment of material. It is a systemic approach that allows design at a range of architectural and material scales, challenging the high modernist notion that space and structure should manifest as singular generic environments in which any activity can take place. This methodology directly operates at micro scales of matter where material organisation is defined. From this, a highly ornate, structurally performative and materially efficient tectonic dissolves the notion of parts and whole. As opposed to distinct contrasts, this tectonic contains varying gradients of hard to soft architectural elements. Through a prototypical house, SoftKill tests the control of resolution and customisation in fabrication to produce an output that economises on material usage without compromising design intent.

Chris Hambling

Ueno Park, Tokyo 2035

A few months back we wrote about the fungus tower soon to be part of New York City. 

Though it would never happen? Think again. The tower is now complete, and you can read all about it here. 

The Secret Of The Abandoned Fish Mall