3dpod

3D-printed & earthquake-proof building

Architectural 3D printing is challenging in seismic countries: Tackling the status quo, 3dpod is the first printed, earthquake-proof building in Japan to receive a building permit. Its sculptural form was fabricated with a special mortar—a highly haptic interior and exterior finishing—serving as the framework for the load-bearing structure made of a unique concrete mixed with steel fibers. This construction method sidesteps the need for ordinary reinforcement bars, maximizing the free-form potential of 3D printing. The pod-like shape was computationally derived, optimizing interior space (volume) and minimizing material usage (surface area).