New Directions of 3D Printed Earth Architecture

The aim of the research is to identify new implementation strategies for earth constructions using additive manufacturing techniques. The preliminary part of the study was about the analysis of traditional earth constructions in Abruzzo (Chieti province) with a reflection about coverage systems weaknesses. To provide a coverage issue solution, Nubian vault construction principles were rediscovered by the author. As a result, a massive organism completely made of earth has been designed: it is a 3D printed rural lamione and the application of it in widespread rural areas represents a museal complex itself. The study concludes with reflections about digital fabrication opportunities in the COVID and post-COVID era.