To celebrate Sir David Attenborough's 90th birthday, Timothy Hatton Architects created an intricate Christmas installation, made entirely
from 100% recycled parts produced by 3D printing.
This project not only highlights the importance of protecting our natural environment but also demonstrates the beauty that 3D printing can achieve.
About the Project
Timothy Hatton Architects, one of London's most renowned architectural firms, created an intricate three-story
Christmas installation at the Aqua Shard restaurant to commemorate Sir David Attenborough's 90th birthday.
Using recycled materials, this 3D-printed artwork highlights how we can all reduce our impact on Earth's fragile ecosystem.
The project aims to raise funds for Fauna and Flora International, which will use the funds to save endangered habitats and species
around the world.
Sir David Attenborough has been a member and one of the most passionate advocates of the charity for nearly 60 years.
When we first investigated 3D printing, it was clear that the 3D printing industry is technologically disruptive and could put further strain on the environment.
Finding eco-friendly plastics is key to making 3D printing successful.
The Art Installation
The installation is prominently displayed in the central atrium of London's Aqua Shard. It features 3000 intricate 3D-printed leaf veins, depicting five threatened British
tree species, including the English oak, silver birch, and field maple.
This nine-meter-tall installation, spanning three stories within the restaurant, emphasizes the beauty of the British countryside and the importance of preserving it.
Notably, all 3D-printed elements of the installation are made from 100% recycled plastic derived from household waste that would otherwise
end up in landfills.
Designed by Timothy Hatton Architects, each leaf will be sold, with all proceeds donated to charity.
3D Printing and Ecological Responsibility
By utilizing 3D printing in this way, guests at Aqua Shard can not only appreciate the art itself but also the use of recycled materials in its creation.
Sir David Attenborough summarized his impression of the project: "Timothy Hatton's installation at Aqua Shard captures the fragility of nature,
the beauty found in diversity, and a reflection on some of our actions and often wasteful society – especially at this time of year.
I am also delighted that the proceeds from the installation will support Fauna and Flora International, an organization that tirelessly works to halt the tide of extinction and protect our planet's biodiversity.
How It Was Made
The leaves were produced using ObjectForm's "mini-manufacturing farm" of 16 Ultimaker 2 3D printers, working simultaneously to complete the installation on time.
Scott Knowles of ObjectForm explained: "When we first looked into 3D printing, it was clear that the 3D printing industry is technologically disruptive
and could put further strain on the environment. Therefore, finding eco-friendly plastics was key to supporting 3D printing. We chose Ultimakers
not only for their Cura software but also for their reliability, speed, and precision."
Click here to learn more about this inspiring installation.
Original link:https://ultimaker.com/en/stories/34816-3d-printed-architectural-design-meets-eco-charity