materiability

Open a New Rhino File

1. Open Rhino and start a new file.
2. Choose the template Large Objects – Millimeters.

Expand the Top View

1. Click into the Top view.
2. Expand it so you can work in one large drawing area.

Draw the Base Square

1. Activate the Polyline command from the left toolbar or type Polyline.
2. In the command line, enter 0 as the start point.
3. Continue with 50,0.
4. Then enter 50,50.
5. Then enter 0,50.
6. Finally type 0 again to close the square.

You should now have a closed 50 × 50 mm square.

Draw the Center Line

1. Change to the next layer.
2. Activate the Line command.
3. Snap to the midpoint of the right side of the square.
4. Draw a horizontal line toward the center of the square.

This line will define the center axis of the slot.

Add the Circle for the Slot End

1. Type Circle or select the Circle tool.
2. Choose Center, Diameter.
3. Snap to the inner end of the line as the center point.
4. Enter 3 (or whatever your material thickness is) as the diameter. The circle represents the inner void that has to remain open for all slots to work and matches the material thickness.

Trim the Line with the Circle

1. Type Trim or activate the Trim tool.
2. Use the circle to cut the overlapping part of the line.
3. Remove the line segment inside the circle. You should now have a line ending cleanly at the circle.

Move the Trimmed Line

1. Select the trimmed line.
2. Type Move or use the Move tool.
3. Move the line vertically by 1.5 mm.
4. Hold Shift to keep the movement orthogonal. This creates one side of the slot opening.

Mirror the Line

1. Select the moved line.
2. Type Mirror or activate the Mirror tool.
3. Turn Copy on.
4. Use the midpoint / center as the mirror axis.
5. Create the mirrored line on the opposite side. You should now have two parallel slot edges.

Close the Slot Shape

1. Activate Polyline again.
2. Use the two mirrored lines as the upper and lower edges of the slot.
3. Draw a short vertical line between the midpoints of these lines.
4. Use Trim to remove the unnecessary inner construction lines.

The slot should now read as one clear construction.

Rotate the Slot Around the Center

1. Select the slot geometry.
2. Type Rotate or activate the Rotate tool.
3. Turn Copy on.
4. Use the center of the square as the pivot point.
5. Create copies at 90, 180, and 270 degrees.

You should now have four identical slots arranged around the center.

Trim the Square Openings

1. Use the slot lines to trim the outer square. 2. Remove the square segments where the slots intersect the outer contour. 3. Open all four sides of the square. The slot geometry should now connect to the outer contour.

Join the Final Contour

1. Delete or hide the helper circle if it is no longer needed.
2. Select all remaining contour lines.
3. Type Join or use the Join command. You should now have one clean final curve that can be used as the basis for a laser-cuttable slot system element.

Important Note

The square is only a simple example to explain the principle. It is not meant as the final shape. Once you understand the logic of slot construction, you can experiment with other geometries and develop your own spatial systems.

Instructions
Manuel Kretzer

Duration
15 min

Level
Basic

Category

Symb-io-nts

Manuel Kretzer — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:11:33 +0000

Speculative Ecologies for a More-Than-Human Future

Symb-io-nts explored how design can reposition itself in a time of mass extinction by shifting from human-centered thinking toward symbiotic relationships with non-human life. Students examined how digital tools—3D scanning, computational design, and digital fabrication—can intervene in natural systems in speculative and future-oriented ways. Instead of using organisms as aesthetic references, the projects studied biological logics, growth patterns, and ecological pressures to create artifacts that could coexist with or support other species.

Field scanning and the analysis of natural structures informed design proposals that challenged anthropocentric assumptions and engaged themes of care, interdependence, and ecological responsibility. Outcomes ranged from micro-scale attachments for insects to larger interventions for threatened habitats, all questioning what it means to design “with” rather than “for” nature.

Through iterative prototyping and material exploration, Symb-io-nts demonstrated how contemporary technology can help envision alternative ecological futures and contribute to the evolving discourse on design against extinction.

The Bat Cave is a roosting system that offers bats safe space to shelter and breed, supporting their vital roles in pollination and insect regulation. By integrating habitat into human environments, the project contributes to biodiversity restoration. It reframes design as co-existence, using computational modelling and digital fabrication to create forms shaped by biological needs and grounded in ecological responsibility.

Students
Nursan Akinci, İdil Akünal, Areeshah Qureshi, Hamzeh Za’balawi, Mohammad Heidari Abhari, Tanvi Kulkarni, Eslam Mohammed, Amirreza Noparvar, Fabian Schmidt, Louis Wahlich, Emily Helbig, Adriane Spence, Selin Özgün, Kristina Baraboshkina, Eileen Ferch

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Ali Etemadi

Project Date

2024

Category

Biomorphic Shell is a speculative design project inspired by mycorrhizal fungi, whose cooperative networks sustain trees underground. Translating this logic above ground, the project proposes a modular 3D-printed lattice that wraps around a tree to offer protection, support, and small habitats for other species. Based on 3D scanning and growth algorithms, the structure adapts to the tree’s form and encourages multispecies coexistence. While still conceptual, the project shifts design toward ecological collaboration and highlights how supportive relationships between built structures and living systems might be cultivated in the future.

Inspired by the invasive giant hogweed, Canopies Unwanted reimagines an “unwanted” species as a catalyst for new ecologies. The project explores how plant morphology and adaptability can inform speculative, non-anthropocentric design. Using 3D-printed umbel-like stems, a flexible cork canopy, and parametric pentagonal starbursts, the artefact forms a layered, plug-in system able to bend and scale in multiple directions. Neither tool nor sculpture, it acts as a fragment of future nature—suggesting how design can shift from confronting invasive species to collaborating with them, and how new forms of coexistence might emerge.

Pigeons have adapted well to urban environments but, over generations, have lost many of their natural nest-building skills. As a result, their makeshift nests often leave eggs exposed to weather and predators. Despite their resilience, pigeons are frequently excluded through hostile design elements such as spikes or nets. A more balanced approach is needed—one that offers safe, designated nesting spaces within the city, especially in public parks. Rather than domesticating or romanticising pigeons, the project proposes a model of coexistence and a more inclusive view of urban ecology within the broader discussion of design against extinction.

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Ali Etemadi

Project Date

2024

Category

Designing Resilience

Manuel Kretzer — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 11:42:22 +0000

Deployable Shelter Design for the Potential Istanbul Earthquake

Istanbul faces an imminent earthquake risk, highlighting the urgent need for adaptable post-disaster shelter solutions. Traditional shelters are often seen as fixed products meant for short-term use, but in reality, they frequently serve communities for years. This thesis proposes a hybrid, transitional shelter system that treats shelter not as a product, but as a process—a structure that can evolve over time alongside the needs of its users. The design prioritizes flexibility, allowing shelters to transform through different post-disaster phases, from emergency to mid-term use, supporting both rapid deployment and longer-term living. By combining deployable and demountable structures, this hybrid system seeks to bridge the critical gap between temporary and permanent housing.

Student
Ecem Yilmaz

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Dr. Polat Darçın

Project Date

2025

Category

The design brings a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Turkish tents, drawing inspiration from their spatial logic and cultural significance. It revisits these historical forms through modern tools, materials, and structural systems, offering a culturally rooted yet forward-looking shelter typology. The result is a user-centered, scalable, and dignified solution tailored to Istanbul’s dense urban landscape and complex recovery dynamics—contributing to a more resilient, humane, and process-driven approach to post-disaster architecture.

Research Question
The study follows the research question: How can a deployable, modular, and adaptable sheltering system be designed to address the evolving needs of displaced populations following a large-scale earthquake in Istanbul?

Methodology
This research employs a mixed-methods approach combining literature review, case study analysis, and design-based investigation. It examines post-disaster shelter typologies, resilience theories, and adaptable design strategies. Comparative case studies from Turkey and abroad inform the design process, focusing on structural, social, and environmental aspects. Insights are applied through iterative prototyping—using computational tools, 3D printing and physical models—to develop and evaluate the design.

Fig.01 Scissor Structure Prototype / Fig.02 Geodesic Dome Joint Prototype

Design Proposal
The thesis proposes a transitional shelter design that addresses both immediate needs and long-term recovery for disaster-affected communities. Unlike static post-disaster housing, transitional shelter is conceived as an evolving process, bridging emergency relief and permanent reconstruction through phased, adaptable upgrades. To support this flexibility and overcome the limitations of purely deployable or demountable systems, the thesis introduces a hybrid solution: a shelter that initially functions as a deployable scissor structure, which can later be disassembled and reconfigured into a demountable geodesic dome.

Fig.03 Diagram of First and Second Phase Structures

To utilize equal-length scissor struts, the length difference between the two types of geodesic dome struts is compensated at the joints. This allows the longer strut to be formed using the same modular element, ensuring uniformity in components while maintaining the dome’s geometry. The dome is designed so that each component can be removed individually without affecting the rest of the structure. The lower parts of the joints are separated to enable easy disassembly of the struts, and the outer shell is attached independently, allowing it to be detached without interfering with the structural frame.

Fig.04 Detail Drawing of the Joint / Fig.05 Exploded Diagram of the Shelter Unit

The design consists of modular components with distinct functions. One element is the entrance/connection module, which allows multiple shelter units to be linked together. This module can be attached to any pentagonal face of the geodesic dome, enabling flexible configurations and scalable expansion. The other key components are the wall modules, divided into façade and interior types. The facade modules are FRP sandwich panels with a mineral wool core for thermal insulation and come in four variations. The interior module is a flexible, modular system based on a triangular grid, using standard parts that allow users to personalize and configure the space according to their needs.

Fig.06 Final Shelter Unit / Fig.07 Diagram of the Interior Wall Module

The spatial layout is intentionally left open for users to shape according to their needs and preferences, allowing flexibility and personalization. However, the thesis proposes several initial configuration options as starting points to guide and inspire users in adapting the space.

The settlement layout largely follows UN standards but incorporates an additional module inspired by traditional tent settlements, creating smaller community clusters centered around a shared communal space. This design fosters social interaction and provides residents with a common area to gather, strengthening community bonds.

Fig.08 Interior of the Shelter Unit / Fig.09 Final Prototype of the Shelter Unit

This thesis presents a resilient and adaptable transitional shelter system tailored for Istanbul’s post-earthquake context. By combining deployable and demountable structures into a hybrid design, it offers flexibility for evolving user needs throughout different recovery phases. Drawing on traditional Turkish tents and modern modular construction, the shelter balances cultural relevance with innovative functionality. The design’s modularity and user-centered approach promote personalization, scalability, and community cohesion. Ultimately, this work contributes a process-driven shelter solution that supports dignity, resilience, and long-term recovery in disaster-affected urban environments.

Fig.10 First Phase of the Shelter, Barrel Vault Scissor Structure / Fig.11 Second-Third Phase of the Shelter, Geodesic Dome Clusters

Student
Ecem Yilmaz

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Dr. Polat Darçın

Project Date

2025

Category

Platonic Solids

Manuel Kretzer — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 13:44:19 +0000

Overview

This tutorial demonstrates how to design a 3D model of a Platonic solid—such as a dodecahedron or icosahedron—using Rhino 3D. You will learn how to construct the solid from a base polygon, rotate and join the faces into a closed 3D geometry, and finally unroll the model into a 2D cutting plan suitable for laser cutting or other fabrication methods.

Start a New File

1. Open Rhino.
2. Select File > New and choose the Small Objects – Millimeters template.
• This is ideal for laser cutting or scale modeling.

Organize Your Layers

1. On the right side, locate the Layers panel.
2. Right-click on the default layer name (e.g., “Default”) and choose Rename – rename it to Hilfsebene (helper plane).
3. Add and rename more layers:
• 3D Körper (3D Body)
• Abwicklung (Unfolded)
• Schnittkanten (Cut Edges)
• Faltkanten (Fold Edges)

Use the colored squares next to each layer name to assign different colors and keep things visually organized.

Instructions
Manuel Kretzer

Duration
45 min

Level
Basic

Category

Continue here for Dodecahedron

Draw a Reference Circle and Polygon

1. Make sure Hilfsebene is the active layer (click its checkmark).
2. In the Top view, type Circle or click the Circle tool in the left toolbar.
3. Click the origin or type 0 as the center point. Then enter a diameter, e.g., 80.
4. Next, type Polygon or select the Polygon tool. Set number of sides to 5 to create a pentagon.
5. Use Inscribed mode and snap to the center of the circle (use Center Osnap).
6. Important: Before clicking the final point, move your mouse to ensure that one side of the polygon is aligned vertically (parallel to the Y-axis).
• You can do this by snapping the final corner of the polygon directly left or right from the center using Ortho mode.

This orientation is crucial for symmetrical unfolding later! You should now have a circle with a pentagon inside.

Create a Side Face

1. Switch to the 3D Körper layer and select the polygon you just drew.
2. Type PlanarSrf or go to Surface > Planar Curves to turn the polygon into a surface.
3. With the surface selected, type Rotate3D and press Enter.
4. Rhino will ask for the axis of rotation:
• In the Top view, click the lower right edge of the polygon — first at the bottom right corner, then at the top right corner of that edge. This defines a vertical axis.
5. Now set the rotation base angle:
• Move your mouse horizontally (along the X-axis) to set the base reference direction (angle = 0°).
6. Type 116.565 and press Enter.
• This rotates the face upward by the correct angle for a dodecahedron (based on its internal dihedral angle).
• Make sure Copy = Yes is selected so that the original face stays in place and a rotated copy is created.

Rotate the Surface Around the Polygon

1. Select the upright polygon surface (the rotated side face).
2. Type Rotate and press Enter.
3. When asked for the center of rotation, type 0 and press Enter to use the center of the circle.
4. Rhino will ask for a reference point to define the rotation angle:
• Click one corner of the base polygon (e.g. the bottom right vertex of the base).
• Then click the next corner in clockwise direction — this defines the 72° step (for a pentagon).
5. In the command line, make sure Copy = Yes so each rotation adds a new face.
6. Press Enter to complete the command.

Repeat this process 4 more times to duplicate the face around all sides of the polygon.

Complete the 3D Dodecahedron

1. Select all the polygon surfaces you created so far.
2. Type Join and press Enter to combine them into a single polysurface.
3. Type Mirror and press Enter.
• In the Front view, click two points along the horizontal (X) axis to mirror the joined surface upward.
4. With the mirrored copy still selected, type Rotate.
• In the Top view, select the center of the base as the rotation center.
• Then click on one corner of the base polygon, and rotate the mirrored top until it aligns with the next half-corner.
5. Use Move to bring the rotated top half downward into position so it connects perfectly with the lower half.
6. Finally, select all parts and type Join to create one closed 3D solid.

Continue here for Icosahedron

Construct the Base Triangle

1. In the Top viewport, type Polygon and press Enter.
2. Set the number of sides to 5, and draw a horizontal pentagon using the Edge option with a side length of 80 mm.
3. Type Line and draw a vertical line from the center of the pentagon with a length of 80mm
4. Type Polygon again and set it to 3 sides.
5. Activate the Edge option and draw an equilateral triangle with one side also measuring 80 mm aligning exactly with one side of the pentagon.
8. Use Rotate3D and rotate the triangle upward using the shared edge as the rotation axis and the centerline as reference until the top of the triangle and the centerline intersect (Intersect Osnap).

Convert Triangle to 3D Surface and Rotate Around Centerline

1. Switch to the 3D Model layer.
2. Select the triangular curve you just drew (the planar triangle).
3. Type PlanarSrf and press Enter to create a surface from the triangle’s boundary.
4. With the surface still selected, type Rotate and hit Enter. Make sure Copy=Yes is enabled.
5. Rotate the surface around the center line. Use the corners of the pentagon as reference.

Orient Two Adjacent Triangles

1. Select the two triangular surfaces.
2. Type Orient3Pt and press Enter.
3. For the source points (Top view): First click the triangle’s top vertex, then click the triangle’s right corner and finally the triangle’s left corner.
4. For the destination points (Top view): First click the triangle’s top vertex, then click the triangle’s left corner and finally the triangle’s right corner.
5. Make sure Copy=Yes so the originals remain.
6. After the triangles are placed, delete any duplicate surfaces left behind.

Duplicate and Rotate Triangles Around the Pentagon

1. Select the bottom triangle that’s already oriented on the pentagon.
2. Type Rotate and press Enter. Make sure Copy=Yes.
3. Click the pentagon’s center point as the rotation axis point.
4. For the reference direction, click the triangle’s base edge (so 0° is aligned).
5. Repeat the Rotate command on each newly placed triangle until all five triangle faces surround the pentagon.

Complete the 3D Icosahedron

1. Select all the triangular surfaces and type Join to combine them into one open polysurface.
2. Type Mirror and, in the Front view, pick two points along the X-axis to mirror the joined half downward.
3. With the mirrored copy still selected, type Rotate and, in the Top view, pick the pentagon’s center as the rotation pivot, then click any triangle corner and rotate it into place.
4. Use Move to lower the mirrored half so that its edges align perfectly with the original half, closing all gaps.
5. Finally, select all faces and type Join to create one closed 3D solid.

Unfold the Geometry

1. Switch to the Abwicklung (Unfolded) layer.
2. Select the entire 3D solid.
3. Type UnrollSrf and press Enter.
4. Make sure Explode = No is unchecked.
5. Press Enter to confirm and let Rhino flatten the geometry automatically.

Prepare Cutting and Folding Edges

1. Switch to the Schnittkanten (Cut Edges) layer.
2. Select the unfolded surface layout.
3. Type DupBorder and press Enter to duplicate the outer boundary curves.
4. Type Offset and offset the border by approx. 6 mm.
5. Type DupEdge and manually select the internal edges that represent fold lines.
6. Switch to the Faltkanten (Fold Edges) layer before duplicating these fold edges.

Add Glue Joints

1. Use Polyline to draw a flap extending from one edge of a polygon surface.
2. Use Mirror to copy the flap across the edge to the opposite side.
3. Repeat the process to place flaps wherever glue joints are needed.
4. Use Trim to remove parts of the duplicated border where joints overlap or are not required.
5. Carefully check which sides need glue joints – not every edge needs one!

Final Cleanup

1. Select all lines, type Explode and press Enter to break all polylines into individual segments.
2. Make sure the Schnittkanten (cut lines) and Faltkanten (fold lines) are correct and organized in the right layers.
3. Double-check edge types: cut lines should form a closed outer boundary, fold lines only between surfaces.
4. Select all lines from the respective layers (cut and fold) and use Join again to reassemble them into closed polylines for laser cutting.
5. Export your geometries as dxf or dwg for laser cutting.

Instructions
Manuel Kretzer

Duration
45 min

Level
Basic

Category

Nerea Skin

Manuel Kretzer — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 15:40:09 +0000

Development of organic packaging for cosmetic products

Rethinking Sustainability in Beauty Packaging
The cosmetics industry is undergoing a transformation, driven by the urgent need to reduce plastic waste. This project introduces a fully biodegradable packaging system designed for liquid and semi-solid cosmetic products, in this case for facial serum, as they represent one of the fastest-growing segments in the beauty industry, driven by consumer demand for high-performance skincare and sustainable packaging alternatives. It offers a regenerative biomaterial, actively reduces plastic waste and provides a future-forward solution for the cosmetics industry and presenting an alternative that blends functionality, sustainability, and refined aesthetics. This project exemplifies the fusion of material innovation, environmental responsibility, and design aesthetics—a step toward a more sustainable future in beauty packaging.

Student
Maria Vacca

Support
Karl Richard Breitling
Nicole Grimm

MODEL
Maria Maciejko
Clara Maritza David Morales

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Nicolai Neubert

Project Date

2025

Category

Material Innovation
By combining sodium alginate from seaweed and chitosan, a natural biopolymer, this project creates a biodegradable material with excellent mechanical properties and protective barriers. Alginate provides a stable structure with excellent mechanical properties such as strength and flexibility, while chitosan offers antibacterial properties that enhance product longevity. This is cross-linked with calcium lactate creates bonds that strengthen the structure and improve water resistance, while being 100% compostable, allowing it to decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues. The structural integrity of the material protects the product, maintaining its quality while responding to the increasing demand for eco-conscious packaging alternatives.

A Modular System with a Refined Expression
Designed as a cohesive yet adaptable system, the packaging embraces a modular structure that offers both practicality and a distinct visual identity. Clean geometric lines define the form, creating a contemporary aesthetic that aligns with the purity of the materials. The set is carefully composed to ensure a distinct user experience, where each element fits together effortlessly, communicating the product’s values and connecting with consumers.

A subtle cut-out detail in the outer shell allows for a glimpse of the product inside, establishing a tactile connection between the consumer and the material itself. This opening not only provides transparency but also invites interaction, reinforcing the authenticity and natural composition of the content. Through precise detailing and a conscious material approach, this packaging system shifts the narrative of sustainable beauty—proving that responsibility and sophistication can exist in perfect balance.

Student
Maria Vacca

Support
Karl Richard Breitling
Nicole Grimm

MODEL
Maria Maciejko
Clara Maritza David Morales

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Nicolai Neubert

Project Date

2025

Category

Mykra

Manuel Kretzer — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 15:00:41 +0000

A sustainable furniture panel alternative

Introduction
The topic of consumer excess is omnipresent. Particularly with regard to our increasing environmental problems, it is clear that it doesn’t matter whether it’s in the fashion industry or the food industry: our overconsumption has a serious impact on the environment and ultimately on ourselves. There are also considerable challenges in the furniture industry due to excessive purchases of furnishings. New collections and the hottest pieces of furniture are constantly in demand in order to stand out.

Student
Sofia Stateczny

Support
Anna Gronemeyer

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Nicolai Neubert

Project Date

2024

Category

The main problem is that a lot of furniture, especially cheap furniture, is mass-produced from chipboard. These have the advantage that they can be produced at a supposedly low cost for the manufacturer, but also have a major disadvantage as they are short-lived and cannot be used for several generations. This is also due to the fact that trends are so fast-moving. Disposal must also be viewed critically, as although the furniture is largely made of wood, it can no longer be considered a pure raw material as it is pressed with glue. The furniture has lost its value; its life expectancy is just between three and seven years.

One consequence of this behavior is that giants such as IKEA clear 21 million m³ of wood every year for the production of this short-lived furniture, which corresponds to an area of 625 km². These forests can neither grow back quickly enough to cover consumption, nor do the replacement “forests”, which are usually planted in monoculture, replace the unique ecosystems that are up to 100 years old.

For this reason, I have set myself the task of completely replacing wood with a mycelium composite and thus revolutionizing the mass production of modular furniture.Since mass production in the industry is not generally a bad thing and also has advantages – such as cost reduction, which makes it possible to give more people access to affordable furniture – it was important to me that the approach developed could hypothetically be transferred to the industry. That’s how I developed the concept for mykra.

mykra consists of mycelium plates, which can be completely composted after the furniture has died due to their natural components. Aluminum brackets make it possible to replace individual elements. The necessary stability of the individual panels is provided by the ingrown bamboo inside the panel, which functions like a reinforcement. Initial tests have shown a load capacity of 50 kg.

The mycelium is the real miracle material here. It is already making groundbreaking progress in a number of other applications. It can completely replace chipped and compressed wood; its natural growth enables it to increase in volume and at the same time combine natural raw materials. It is possible to grow the fungus further and further with the addition of nutrients, which also represents a more cost-effective alternative for the industry. All that is needed is a sterile environment and sufficient heat – these are the basics to allow it to continue growing on composite materials such as hemp bedding.

There are then different types of processing. In the case of mykra, after an eight-day growth phase, the boards are cured with a heating press at over 120 degrees and are then ready for further processing. This creates a smooth surface that offers less surface area for the material to tear. However, it is also possible to cut the boards to size or allow the fungus to grow on veneer.

So I think this is just the beginning of a new step in furniture production. Unfortunately, we cannot change our consumption as easily as the raw materials we use and in what form.

Student
Sofia Stateczny

Support
Anna Gronemeyer

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Nicolai Neubert

Project Date

2024

Category

Reallabor ZEKIWA Zeitz

Manuel Kretzer — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 17:11:42 +0000

Fused Granular Fabrication of Innovative Furniture

As part of the broader Reallabor Zekiwa Zeitz Project, this research investigates the potential of large-scale additive manufacturing through Fused Granular Fabrication (FGF) utilizing the HansWeber DX 025. By employing computational design methodologies, advanced strategies are formulated to optimize resource efficiency, minimize material consumption, and curtail energy expenditure, all while preserving aesthetic sophistication and functional integrity. This exploration facilitates the development of parametrically-driven, structurally optimized furniture and interior elements, demonstrating the capacity of digital fabrication to enhance circular design paradigms. The integration of algorithmic modelling and generative design further enables the realization of adaptive, context-responsive forms, reinforcing the synergy between technological innovation and sustainable material applications.

Beyond conventional layer-by-layer extrusion techniques, the investigation encompasses non-planar and free-form printing methodologies, broadening the scope of fabrication geometries and structural efficiencies. Additionally, hybridized processes integrating additive manufacturing with complementary sustainable material systems are being explored, fostering the convergence of bio-based, recycled, and biodegradable composites with advanced digital manufacturing frameworks. The objective is to redefine material performance criteria, augment production sustainability, and introduce novel methodologies that transcend traditional design constraints. Through these innovations, the research aims to establish a progressive framework for digital craftsmanship in furniture and interior design, aligning with the overarching principles of environmental responsibility and circular economy models.

PROJECT FUNDING
European Union

Researcher
Ali Etemadi

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer

Project Date

01.01.25 - 31.12.27

Category

View Project

Images: Left: TectoMin and TectoMorph. Models: Min Nguyen and Virginia Binsch. Photo: Paulina Schröder, 2025. Right: Weavium. Models: Louis Möckel. Photo: Paulina Schröder, 2025.

PROJECT FUNDING
Europäische Union & Land Sachsen-Anhalt

Researcher
Anna Gronemeyer
Sofia Stateczny
Dr. Marc Rüger (Bioscience)
Lilian Malich (Bioscience)

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Dr. Jana Rödig

Project Date

01.01.25 - 31.12.27

Category

View Project

Parasitic Dilemma

Manuel Kretzer — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:55:50 +0000

Designing Multispecies Habitats for Symbiosis and Coexistence in the Built Environment

Introduction
Urbanization and industrial expansion accelerate pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. This thesis reimagines architecture as a dynamic, living system that fosters biodiversity, promotes multispecies coexistence—from microorganisms to humans—and mitigates environmental damage.

Methodology
The research follows a mixed-method approach, combining literature review, spatial and environmental analysis, and computational experiments. An actor-based spatial strategy maps human and non-human interactions, informing the design process.

Institute
Dessau International Architecture Graduate School

Student
Raneem Salman

Supervision
Prof. Ivan Kucina
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer

Project Date

2025

Category

Biomaterials · Digital Fabrication · Speculative Design

The project relies on three key concepts:

I. Bioreceptivity
Bioreceptivity refers to a material’s ability to support living organisms (Guillitte, 1995). It enables microbial, fungal, and plant colonization, creating habitats for insects, birds, and other species. Both intrinsic factors (surface texture, porosity, material composition) and extrinsic factors (temperature, humidity, sunlight exposure) influence its effectiveness (Ortega-Morales et al., 2021).

II. Landscape Ecology
Urban environments, often seen as biological deserts, can be designed to support biodiversity. The Patch-Corridor-Matrix Model (Forman, 1995) enhances ecological connectivity, guiding urban planning to promote species movement and ecosystem resilience.

III. Multispecies Design
This approach challenges human-centered architecture by introducing a method for designing multispecies habitats and understanding the complex relationships between different species within the built environment.

The chosen site is an abandoned industrial hangar in the Port of Belgrade, one of Europe’s most polluted cities, struggling with air and water contamination. This location serves as a testing ground for ecological restoration.

The project accommodates both human and non-human users:
– Humans: Occupy the Research Hub, where environmental conditions are monitored.
– Endangered species (Ferruginous Duck, Eurasian Beaver, European Ground Squirrel): Reside in Protected Core Zones, shielded from predators.
– Local species (Red Fox, Roe Deer): Roam Open Ecological Zones, connected togreen corridors for migration.
– Moss & Plants (Tortula muralis): Colonize bioreceptive geopolymer surfaces,enhancing biodiversity.

The project balances biodiversity conservation with ecological integration:
– Protected Core Zones safeguard vulnerable species.
– Open Ecological Zones encourage natural interactions.
– Urban Corridors connect fragmented green spaces, ensuring ecological flow.

To promote moss colonization, the structure’s form creates self-shaded, humid microclimates. Ladybug analysis optimizes the geometry, reducing solar exposure to enhance bioreceptivity. Karamba and Galapagos simulations optimize the structure by reducing roof displacement and improving stability through strategic support placement. The structure is shaped using an inflatable balloon mold, reinforced with steel and bioreceptive geopolymer—a sustainable material with high strength and microbial colonization potential.

Institute
Dessau International Architecture Graduate School

Student
Raneem Salman

Supervision
Prof. Ivan Kucina
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer

Project Date

2025

Category

Biomaterials · Digital Fabrication · Speculative Design

Nodes

Manuel Kretzer — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 20:04:38 +0000

One-week workshop in computational design and 3D printing

Connector systems have long been the backbone of innovation in design and architecture, enabling the creation of complex structures and modular assemblies. In the mid-20th century, visionaries like Konrad Wachsmann revolutionized construction techniques with his development of universal connector joints, allowing for unprecedented flexibility and efficiency in building systems. The iconic USM Haller system further advanced this concept in the 1960s, setting new standards for customizable and reconfigurable furniture design that remain influential today.

In recent years, designers and researchers have expanded the possibilities of connector systems through digital fabrication technologies, developing solutions that are both highly functional and visually striking. Innovators like Joris Laarman have used 3D printing to craft intricate connectors that merge technical performance with artistic design. These advancements enable new forms of structural and spatial design, offering customizable solutions that can be precisely adapted to unique requirements and environments.

In this intensive one-week expertise seminar, Students explored generative design using Rhino and Grasshopper and the 3D-printing of custom made connector-systems.

Natural Fracture
The task was to adapt a preset in Grasshopper to develop a modular system that reflects a personal concept. My design, NATURALFRACTURE, features a cube where biomorphic nodes connect straight, uniform wooden rods. I intended to contrast artificial and natural elements: the plastic nodes mimic organic forms, while the wooden rods possess an unnatural precision. Initially, I explored geometric connections, but the design evolved into biomorphic shapes to highlight material interplay. transparent plastic was 3D-printed for the nodes due to its lightness and sculptural quality, while wooden rods emphasize simplicity and tactile warmth. This plug-in system can inspire modular furniture or art installations. Targeted at designers and architects, the project showcases the dynamic relationship between form, materiality, and nature.

Students
İdil Akünal, Kristina Baraboshkina, Tom Grothum, Tanvi Kulkarni, Egehan Layık, Eslam Mohammed, San Sarabil

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Ali Etemadi
Prof. Dr. Arne Berger

Project Date

2024

Category

Aya
During a week-long expertise project, we explored the potential of a Grasshopper script that generates structures procedurally through nodes. Inspired by its versatility and efficiency, we aimed to leverage this script as a base for product development, focusing on creating functional, adaptive designs. Our initial challenge was to design a prosthetic hand that is affordable, simple to construct, and easily modifiable for individuals with disabilities. By harnessing the node-based design system, we developed a practical solution that emphasizes accessibility and customization. Building on this foundation, we pushed the boundaries of our concept to explore body enhancement possibilities. As a final product, we designed an additional hand that can seamlessly attach to a person’s arm, showcasing how procedural design can inspire innovation and open new possibilities for adaptive technology.

EONS
EONS (Exploring Organic Nodes Structure) is a project focused on designing a modular polyhedron structure.
The project utilized a Grasshopper script to visualize and generate precise 3D-printed nodes, which were used to connect wooden sticks and construct a structure. Initially intended as a rigid framework for a single product, the design evolved into a flexible, scalable system during prototyping. This modular system offers endless configuration possibilities, making it adaptable for diverse applications, including space dividers, lightweight frameworks, sculptural installations, and product design. Its simplicity, adaptability, and aesthetic value position it as a versatile tool for creative structural solutions.

Students
İdil Akünal, Kristina Baraboshkina, Tom Grothum, Tanvi Kulkarni, Egehan Layık, Eslam Mohammed, San Sarabil

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Ali Etemadi
Prof. Dr. Arne Berger

Project Date

2024

Category

Innovative Mycolab

Manuel Kretzer — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 18:50:08 +0000

Mycothek (InMyco)

The InMyco project is a collaboration between the Materiability Research Group and Applied Biosciences and Process Engineering aims to develop innovative mycelium materials through interdisciplinary collaboration between biotechnology, material development, and design. By integrating these disciplines, new sustainable materials will be created from waste and by-products from agriculture, forestry, agribusiness, and process industries. These innovative materials will enable the creation of resource-efficient products for various sectors, including construction, packaging, textiles, and crafts. The goal is to establish a mycotheque that showcases the potential of mycelial materials produced from regional raw materials that would otherwise be discarded, offering new perspectives on future materials. Through the technical implementation of these materials in a practical context, their innovative application and potential for real-world impact will be demonstrated.

PROJECT FUNDING
Europäische Union & Land Sachsen-Anhalt

Researcher
Anna Gronemeyer
Sofia Stateczny
Dr. Marc Rüger (Bioscience)
Lilian Malich (Bioscience)

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Dr. Jana Rödig

Project Date

01.01.25 - 31.12.27

Category

Image: Mycelium materialities. Image Credits: Anna Gronemeyer, 2024.

PROJECT FUNDING
Europäische Union & Land Sachsen-Anhalt

Researcher
Anna Gronemeyer
Sofia Stateczny
Dr. Marc Rüger (Bioscience)
Lilian Malich (Bioscience)

Supervision
Prof. Dr. Manuel Kretzer
Prof. Dr. Jana Rödig

Project Date

01.01.25 - 31.12.27

Category