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.
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.
Ronald Rael
CEO & Co-Founder
Virginia San Fratello
Chief Creative Officer & Co‑Founder