Emerging Objects explored how locally sourced and recycled materials can be used with advanced 3D printing to design for a climate-impacted future. Research investigates transforming wildfire ash into printable bio-based materials and tested earthen 3D-printed structures that harness thermal mass for resilient, low-energy building performance. These experiments demonstrate how digital fabrication and traditional materials can work together to create more sustainable and fire-resilient architecture.

Icons_Podcast

Listen to the Podcast
Coming soon

Icons_Blog

Read the Research
Coming soon

Under Fire


Our research examined how we can design and build for a fire-ravaged future by incorporating local, recycled, and indigenous materials into the 3D printing process. 

 

This research focused on:

  • An exploration into wildfire ash, and how it can be 3D printed and used in the creation of interior building components for the future - pieces that help us remember what we have lost.

  • 3D printing an earthen fire-resistant building prototype for testing various  environmental conditions.

  • Develop new work for a mid-career survey of the work of Rael and San Fratello  for the YBCA. The exhibition will include material samples and images of the earthen and wildfire ash research conducted herein.

 

Meet the Research Team

Ronald Rael
 CEO & Co-Founder

Virginia San Fratello
 Chief Creative Officer & Co‑Founder