30 Oct 2023

ARIDO Award: The Hive

The first of its kind in Canada, this 3D printed masonry wall is the result of a collaboration between design professionals, students, and faculty at an Ontario university.

Category: CRAFT

Interior Designers: Joanne Chan, ARIDO; Bruce Freeman, ARIDO; Glenn Cheng, ARIDO
Design Firm: SDI Design
Photographer: Scott Norsworthy

3D printed masonry wall The Hive employs hexagonal cells for an even distribution of load

The material changes of the The Hive during the drying and firing processes mean that each finished tile is unique

Drawing from the construction knowledge of bees, the design of The Hive employs hexagonal cells for an even distribution of load while minimizing material use but maximizing strength and stability. Clay’s plasticity and malleability bring a handmade sensibility to the 3D printed pieces. Its material changes during the drying and firing processes mean that each finished tile is unique. As it’s located in the offices of a wealth management firm it underscores the collective purpose of the space.