Rethinking the Column: Revealing the Core

Exhibited at BE-AM 2024 (@think.beam ), part of @formnext at the Frankfurter Messe, this column prototype takes a fresh look at traditional architectural elements.

This project explores the concept of a column as more than just a structural element—it’s both functional and ornamental. By separating the core and skin, the design reveals what’s usually hidden, showcasing the structural core and its expressive details. Inspired by the Solomonic column, the design uses a «tectonic unwrapping» approach, where the skin is peeled back in sections to expose the core, transforming it into an ornamental feature.

The column was created using 3D concrete printing and pigmentation by Vertico, demonstrating how robotic fabrication and digital design push the boundaries of architecture.

A special thanks to the BE-AM team for organizing this event and celebrating innovation!

Project Team:
Design: @tiaoo Mattia Zucco, @cristinahereandthere Cristina Nan (Eindhoven University of Technology)
Support: Nikolett Ásványi @nikiasvanyi_asi , Li Xiang @xiangxiang_0209
‍Fabrication: Vertico
Photos: Malcolm Unger
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*The 1st image has seen minor digital alteration, the background only

‍#Vertico #DigitalManufacturing #Robotics #ConcreteMilling #Innovation #3DConcretePrinting #3dcp #ConcreteColumn #TUE

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