A Look into Architectural Innovation with Large Format 3D Printing: Tiffany & Co. Facade at Changi Airport by MVRDV

Case Study: Architectural Facades with 3D Printing

7th May 2024

4-5 Minute Read

In a striking blend of art, technology, and sustainability, Rotterdam-based architectural and urban design practice MVRDV, in collaboration with Amsterdam-based 3D printing company Aectual, designed a coral-inspired façade for the Tiffany & Co. store at Singapore Changi Airport. This project showcases the capabilities of large-format 3D printing in architecture, demonstrating how it can meet both aesthetic and functional requirements.

The façade design is heavily inspired by the local biodiversity of Singapore, particularly its coral reefs. MVRDV incorporated elements of Tiffany’s brand identity, such as the iconic Tiffany Blue® colour and patterns that mimic the intricate structures of coral reefs.

Materials and Technology

The facade was constructed using Fused Granular Fabrication (FGF), an extrusion-based additive manufacturing method that employs granular materials, specifically pellets. This technique involves melting plastic granules and depositing them layer-by-layer to form robust 3D structures. The facade was 3D printed using O a composite material composed of a 75% thermoplastic base derived from recycled fishing nets and ropes from Northern Europe. This material undergoes a process of sorting, shredding, washing, and separation before being reinforced with glass fiber, which enhances its tensile strength and impact resistance. This innovative material was developed and refined through a collaboration between the Amsterdam-based non-profit plastics recycling company, Reflow, and the Italian 3D printing construction firm WASP.

Each year, between 500,000 and one million tonnes of ghost nets are abandoned in the ocean, causing devastating impacts on marine animals. Recycling this material not only commercialises the recovery efforts but also advances the technology. With the assistance of Aectual’s expertise in 3D printing and materials application, MVRDV's vision was realised, demonstrating the practical and environmental benefits of recycling in large-scale construction projects.

The choice of material and the 3D printing technique were critical in realising this project. The façade’s 50-millimetre-thick screen was developed to meet stringent fire safety standards, crucial for its airport setting. Thanks to the customisable properties of the FGF method, flame retardants derived from seawater were added to enhance safety.

Impact and Innovation

MVRDV’s innovative approach to the Tiffany & Co. façade exemplifies the transformative potential of large-format 3D printing in modern architecture, offering several benefits to design thinking and engineering:

Customisation: 3D printing allows for high levels of customisation in architectural designs without significant cost increases, enabling unique façade patterns that reflect the identities and objectives of architectural projects.

Efficiency: The use of FGF significantly reduces the time required to produce custom large-scale components that require unique material properties, streamlining the construction process and enabling faster project completion.

Sustainability: Although still emerging in its industrial applications, the ability of 3D printing to utilise recycled materials directly supports sustainability goals and reduces the environmental impact associated with new material production.

This project not only pushes the boundaries of design and technology but also underscores the growing importance of sustainable practices in the construction industry.

Discover the future of sustainable architecture with Hyperion Systems. Explore how our large-format 3D printing solutions can transform your next architectural project. Contact us today to learn more!



Photo Credits: MVRDV / Tiffany

Bringing precision to every detail, your vision becomes a reality layer by layer.

Lets shape your next project with
large format 3D printing.

Bringing precision to every detail, your vision becomes a reality layer by layer.

Lets shape your next project with
large format 3D printing.

Bringing precision to every detail, your vision becomes a reality layer by layer.

Lets shape your next project with
large format 3D printing.