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Biocompatible Structures Enhanced by 3D-Printed Soil Materials Along the Trans-Siberian Route

Author:
Alberto T. Estevez
Biocompatible Structures Enhanced by 3D-Printed Soil Materials Along the Trans-Siberian Route

Project in-detail

Employing 3D-printed soil materials and biocompatible structures, the design creates multifunctional pit stops along the Trans-Siberian Railway, emphasizing sustainability and adaptability in remote locations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local soil as a primary material for 3D printing, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a dynamic lighting system that adapts to surrounding environmental conditions for energy efficiency.
03
Features biocompatible structures that promote interaction with the natural landscape and support sustainability.
04
Emphasizes curvilinear designs that mimic organic forms, enhancing aesthetic appeal and user experience.
05
Offers modular assembly capabilities, allowing flexibility in function and design based on location and needs.
The architectural design project focuses on creating a network of pit stops along the Trans-Siberian Railway, commemorating significant historical events—the centenary of the railway's establishment in 1916 and the Russian Revolution of 1917. This project represents the fusion of biological and digital concepts in architecture, emphasizing sustainability and adaptability. The design aims to enhance traveler experience, provide multifunctional spaces, and promote environmental harmony.

Sustainability is a core principle of the project. The structures utilize 3D-printed elements made from local soil, integrating biocompatible materials to ensure minimal ecological impact. This choice of materials aligns with the project’s goal of creating buildings that coexist with their surroundings. The architectural forms exhibit curvilinear and organic shapes that reflect natural structures, highlighting the project’s focus on a living architecture catering to both aesthetic and functional needs.

The functionality of the pit stops is critical. Each structure features designated areas for information services, retail, and rest facilities, allowing flexibility based on user demands. The spatial organization is adaptable, supporting various activities throughout the day and maintaining efficiency according to passenger flow.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinctive aspect of the project is its emphasis on mobile fabrication. A specialized robotic arm attached to a 3D printing system is designed to enable on-site construction. This approach minimizes transportation costs and allows for a responsive design that adjusts to specific site conditions. The integration of additive manufacturing techniques not only enhances efficiency but also showcases an innovative use of technology in architecture.

Additionally, the project incorporates Betalytics, an energy-efficient lighting system that adjusts to environmental changes. This functionality contributes to the architectural strategy of optimizing energy usage while enhancing user comfort. The project embodies a biomechanical design ethos, stimulating discussions on the relationship between architectural forms and their ecological environments.

Integration of Eco-Friendly Features

The project’s ecological considerations extend beyond material use. Each pit stop is designed with sustainability in mind, implementing features that promote energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprints. The adaptive light management system enhances the user experience by providing appropriate illumination based on the time of day and weather conditions. Such design choices not only reflect an awareness of resources but also demonstrate a commitment to integrating architecture with natural systems.

To gain deeper insights into this architectural design project, including a detailed look at architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of its complex interrelations and the advanced techniques employed in its design.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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