Kids Under Cover

BACKGROUND This project is part of our larger research agenda focused on the development of large-scale 3D polymer printing for building construction. This specific project develops 3D printing strategies at a sub-architectural scale - that of a cubby house, as a way of testing and advancing this research on a relatively simple project. The research primarily makes a contribution to architecture with secondary contributions to advanced manufacturing. The project is focused on the architectural implications of 3D printing, exploring how this new technology will have an important influence on the buildings we design. The contribution to advanced manufacturing will be through the further development of an industrial scale 3D printing process. CONTRIBUTION This research project constitutes one of the largest 3D printed polymer architectural prototypes fabricated internationally and creates a valuable contribution to the development and discourse surrounding architectural-scale 3D printing. Developing and fabricating a prototype of this scale enabled the testing and resolution of architectonic details and the integration of other architectural systems, such as structure. The project is a tangible step toward 3D polymer printing buildings and is important in demonstrating the potential of this technology. SIGNIFICANCE The significance of the Project will be both within the architectural discourse of robotic fabrication as well as having a wider impact on the construction sector. Roland Snooks's development of architectural approaches to 3D printing and direct deposition robotic fabrication has been published internationally as book chapters, and conference papers: this project adds to this body of research. The project team was selected through a competitive process as one of five teams to deliver the cubby house as part of a charity event organised by the Kids Under Cover organisation. The project won the Best Architectural Design Award for this competition.