In April 2024, Dropcity initiated live self-construction activities "bringing on-site large 3D printers, advanced machinery, and great builders to reconstruct the infamous Milan Central Station warehouses." Through this ground-breaking project, Dropcity aims to reimagine architectural typologies and facilitate innovative interventions. Dropcity's live self-construction project also involves the renovation of long-abandoned warehouses into research centers, open-space offices, exhibition areas, labs, and more.
During Milan Design Week, WASP’s 3D printing site will showcase its technologies in action, demonstrating the restoration works in progress. WASP’s architectural 3D Crane printer will manufacture multifunctional wall modules, while another experimental printer model will print directly from within the tunnel walls, introducing a new approach to architectural 3D printing. Additionally, a clay 3D printing farm will be utilized for constructing architectural elements, including a parametric brick wall composed of uniquely designed pieces. The project also includes a construction concept called Future Frames, aiming to minimize material-intensive production through a partnership between Muthesius University in Kiel and Studio Streev.
Live Self-Construction Projects
Dropcity Initiates Live Self-Construction in Milan Central Station
Trend Themes
1. Live Self-construction Innovation - A ground-breaking project reimagining architectural typologies and facilitating innovative interventions through on-site 3D printers and advanced machinery.
2. 3D Printing Architectural Transformation - Demonstration of restoration works utilizing architectural 3D printing technologies to manufacture multifunctional wall modules and introduce new printing approaches.
3. Clay 3D Printing Advancements - Utilization of a clay 3D printing farm to construct unique architectural elements like parametric brick walls, showcasing disruptive innovation in construction techniques.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture & Construction - Embrace the use of on-site 3D printers and advanced machinery to reshape architectural typologies and revolutionize construction techniques.
2. 3D Printing Technology - Explore the transformative possibilities of architectural 3D printing for manufacturing multifunctional modules and experimenting with new printing methods.
3. Clay Manufacturing - Innovate in construction by leveraging clay 3D printing for creating distinctive architectural elements like parametric brick walls, offering a sustainable and customizable approach.