Striatus
Striatus is a 3D-printed concrete bridge designed for adaptable assembly and reuse, showcased at the 2021 Venice Architecture Biennale. Composed of dry-assembled, mortar-less concrete blocks, the bridge highlights ecological responsibility through efficient material use and waste reduction. Moreover, the bridge can be disassembled and re-assembled with no waste, adapting to future use cases and extending its lifecycle.
Type
Professional
Work
As part of the Computational Design Applied Research Group, I worked on the computational design tools utilized to generate the bridge and facilitated their application in other projects, improving real-time force-feedback.
Description
Status
Constructed
Project
Role
​Location
Venice Biennale
Years
2021 - present
Authors
Zaha Hadid Architects
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Block
Research
Group
1. Generative Design Tool
First, a custom software tool was developed to facilitate the design of a geometry optimized for forces and fabrication. The designer defines the starting points of the bridge and adjusts parameters as the software conducts form-finding to identify the ideal shape for optimal structural performance under compression.
2. Concrete 3D-Printing
Once the geometry is defined, the pieces are 3D-printed by a robotic arm. By continuously adjusting its speed, the arm deposits varying amounts of material, creating layers of differing thickness and achieving curved topologies. Furthermore, layers are printed perpendicular to the direction of force stress to optimize structural performance.
3. Discrete Assembly
Once the pieces are fabricated, they can be transported and assembled in site. Unlike traditional concrete construction, this workflow uses no mortar or rebar, simplifying and speeding up the assembly process.
4. Use, Disassembly, and Relocation
Once all pieces are set into place, the bridge can be used and enjoyed. After use, the pieces can be disassembled as easily as they were assembled. Where conventional concrete structures are demolished, Striatus is reused, extending the lifecycle of concrete and presenting a more sustainable alternative to traditional construction.
