Amsterdam, Netherlands, 24 May 2018: The Dutch architectural firm DUS foresees an important role for large-scale 3D printing for the entire Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, said Hedwig Heinsman, Co-founder and partner at DUS. This, Heinsman said, led the company to professionalise their architectural 3D printing expertise with the launch of a new firm, Aectual. He said: “Aectual offers state-of-the-art robotic and software technology to develop smart printed building products such as flooring, facades and staircases, on an industrial scale. Our aim is to provide a global platform for 3D printed building products, and thus bring premium tailor-made architecture to a much larger audience.”

Speaking on the company’s latest projects, Heinsman said a 3D printed cabin and canal house, in the process of being built, used natural ventilation. “Aectual will soon launch a printed façade cladding that can also double up as a brise soleil shade panel,” he said, “providing natural shading during the summer and letting the sun through in the winter period.” Heinsman said owing to digital technology, it is easy to customise each panel according to the solar angle of a particular building. Integrated design, Heinsman said, is vital as the industry moves forward.

Hannah Jo Uy is Features Writer at Climate Control Middle East magazine. She may be contacted at hannah@cpi-industry.com