Architectural Ornament: Timescapes

This chapter analyzes how 3D Printing technologies enable complex geometry projects with an intricate ornamental quality. It speculates about the disciplinary motivations for formal search and the technical aspects such as detail resolution, build volume, speed, cost, and assembly of complex projects. AirLab’s built project Timescapes, a 113 m2 pavilion, is analyzed in detail, demonstrating innovations in design, manufacturing, and assembly workflows, as well as the essential challenges and limitations of 3D Printing for freeform ornamental architecture.