IAAC 3D prints structure using local soil and natural materials

In Barcelona, the Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia has recently completed the second phase of a 100-square meeting building prototype constructed using 3D printing and locally sourced soil and natural materials.

Dubbed 3D Printed Earth Forest Campus, the structure is being erected in Collserola Natural Park. Phase one was a single earth-printed wall, which has now a “full-scale pavilion,” according to design boom. 

The structure includes natural stone, stabilized earth, organic fibers, and natural enzymes. It took about 10 days for the walls to reach 2.5 meters in height. The goal is to show potential solutions for construction’s large carbon footprint and the global housing shortage.

Architecture firm Hassell also contributed to the project development.