Rethinking the Column: Revealing the Core

At BE-AM 2024, part of Formnext at the Frankfurter Messe, Vertico presented an experimental column prototype. It treats the column as a structural component and also as a symbolic and aesthetic element. Inspired by the Solomonic column, the design peels back the outer shell to reveal the structural core, turning what is usually hidden into the main feature.

Tectonic unwrapping: function and form

The design uses a technique called tectonic unwrapping. The outer surface is "peeled" in segments to expose the inner skeleton.

This highlights the double role of the column in classical and contemporary architecture: bearing load and communicating identity. By separating skin from core, the design proposes a new visual and spatial language for columns that combines ornament, function and storytelling in one concrete form.

Robotic 3D printing and pigmentation

Vertico printed the column with our Robot on Track system and Accelerator 2K printhead. The prototype shows how parametric design and robotic 3D concrete printing can be used for expression as well as efficiency.

Pigments highlight the separation between skin and core. The result shows how digital design and material control open up new possibilities in architectural design. See also the related modular column project.

The first image has been digitally altered (background only).

Credits

The prototype was developed in 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: Malcolm Unger

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