Digital Chaiselongue: A Harmonious Blend of Craftsmanship and Technology

Philipp Aduatz and incremental3d Revolutionize Furniture Design with 3D Printed Concrete

The Digital Chaiselongue is the product of a collaboration between Aduatz and incremental3d, a company specializing in concrete 3D printing. This partnership aimed to showcase the potential of complex freeform design in furniture applications using incremental3d's cutting-edge technology. The result is a unique piece of furniture that stands out for its intricate concrete geometries, realized in record time thanks to the capabilities of 3D printing.

Creating the Digital Chaiselongue involved a meticulous process. First, a negative mould was 3D printed from concrete. The complete geometry was then printed onto the mould in less than an hour. To ensure sufficient tensile strength, carbon fibres were inserted in sensitive areas. The seating area was finished with a UV-resistant polyurethane coating, applied by hand to demonstrate the harmonious coexistence of craftsmanship and digital technology in the 21st century.

The Chaiselongue is not just a piece of furniture but also a functional piece of art. It can serve as a lounger or bench for one or more people and is suitable for permanent outdoor use. Its sculptural design also allows it to function as a public artwork, making it a potential landmark in the field of concrete structures.

The project, which began in the fall of 2017, faced several challenges. The programming of the 6-axis robot and generating a suitable code for the geometry were among the most significant hurdles. Calculations for the load-bearing abilities of the object and the placement of the carbon fibres for stability also posed challenges. However, the team's dedication and expertise enabled them to overcome these obstacles, resulting in a design that is not only visually stunning but also structurally sound.

The Digital Chaiselongue's innovative design and execution have not gone unnoticed. It was awarded Silver in the A' 3D Printed Forms and Products Design Award in 2018, a testament to its remarkable design and the team's outstanding expertise and innovation. This award-winning design serves as a shining example of the potential of digital fabrication technology in the realm of furniture design, paving the way for future innovations in the field.