3D printed earthen architecture
Collaboration:
IAAC
​​WASP s.r.l
Research and Construction: Post graduate in 3D printing of architecture​
Aug-Feb 2025/26​
Nyara
In 6 months we planned and executed the earthen 3D printed building Nyara at the IAAC Forest Campus in Barcelona, Spain
Material research
Photo by IAAC, 2025/26
Material research on 100% natural and biocompatible earthen material mix for 3D printing
In addition to developing a material for the prototype, The lack of a standard for 3D printing with earth is slowing the path to real world application. By testing material performance with tests from 3D printing with concrete - and earthen architecture standard, this research aims at developing a guideline for material testing with the aim of working towards creating a standard.
Window research
Photo by IAAC, 2025/26
Earth shrinks and warps during drying, making standard installation of windows and doors a big challenge.
Every challenge is a potential opportunity! Due to the large tolerances needed in 3>D printing with earth, standard installation of windows and doors is a challenge, especially when we want to use all natural materials as well! However, the possibility of customizing the toolpaths of the print opens up potential for new types of joinery. In the 7 weeks of the research phase we ended up with one adapted framed window solution and one frameless window (see gif above).
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We were divided into groups for 7 weeks where each group researched a different topic related to challenges around 3D printing with earth. The other topics were, improving wet state stability of the wall, ventilation cavities for drying and performative wall patterns.
The Construction process
1. Site preparation
2. Foundation/ The Plinth
3. Printing
Presenting; Nyara
Photo by IAAC, 2025/26
And last but not least, the Nyara team!
Photo by IAAC, 2025/26
Tools used
-Crane WASP
_ABB Robot
- Customized Ender 5 Clay 3D printer
- CNC-mill
Rhino
Grasshopper
Collaborators
