Rethinking the Column: Revealing the Core

A New Take on Architectural Columns

Unveiled at BE-AM 2024 (part of Formnext at the Frankfurter Messe), this experimental column prototype explores a redefinition of the column—not just as a structural component, but as a symbolic and aesthetic element. Drawing inspiration from the Solomonic column, this design peels back the exterior shell to reveal the structural core beneath, making what’s usually hidden into a celebrated feature.

Tectonic Unwrapping: Merging Function with Form

The design concept uses a technique referred to as tectonic unwrapping, where the outer surface is “peeled” in segments to expose the inner skeleton. This method highlights the dual role of columns in classical and contemporary architecture—bearing load and communicating identity.

By separating skin from core, the design proposes a fresh visual and spatial language for columns, blending ornamentation, function, and storytelling into a single concrete gesture.

3D Printing and Pigmentation: A Robotic Fabrication Process

Fabricated by Vertico using our robot-on-track system and Accelerator 2K printhead, the column showcases the potential of parametric design and robotic 3D concrete printing to go beyond efficiency — and into expression.

Pigmentation techniques were used to highlight the separation between skin and core, showing how digital design and material control enable new architectural narratives.

The first image has been digitally altered — background only.

Collaborative Innovation in Design and Fabrication

This prototype was developed through a close collaboration between Vertico and design researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology, led by:

• Mattia Zucco (@tiaoo)
• Cristina Nan (@cristinahereandthere)
  With support from:
• Nikolett Ásványi (@nikiasvanyi_asi)
• Li Xiang (@xiangxiang_0209)
• Photos by Malcolm Unger

Special thanks to the BE-AM team for hosting the event and supporting architectural experimentation.