This project explores the architectural and structural possibilities of 3D printing for modular housing, focusing specifically on self-supporting forms such as arches and catenary curves. These geometries have long been celebrated for their ability to distribute loads efficiently and minimize the need for additional support materials. By leveraging their natural structural logic, the project aims to reduce material usage while enhancing stability and spatial quality. The use of these forms also opens up expressive architectural potentials, blending performance with aesthetics in a way that challenges conventional building approaches.
However, translating these geometries into 3D-printed structures introduces a set of technical challenges, particularly in terms of printability and layering logic. Unlike traditional rectilinear forms, curved self-supporting geometries demand a reconsideration of printing orientation, support strategy, and material behavior during the printing process. In response, the project involved extensive experimentation with various deposition techniques and layer sequencing. These trials were crucial not only for achieving structural integrity but also for enhancing surface articulation and texture. The result is a body of work that demonstrates how digital fabrication can integrate design, structure, and material logic into a unified architectural system.
