Rotterdam-based architecture practice Studio RAP has created a façade for a boutique, featuring a bespoke 3D-printed ceramic tiles and bricks on Amsterdam’s P.C. Hooftstraat, the Netherlands.

The project, named Ceramic House, presents an artisanal look and texture, inspired by the craft of knitting garments. The studio has created this façade by utilizing its own bespoke, custom-built 3D printing technology through the studio's digital design algorithms designed in-house. 

"The Ceramic House reshapes architectural expression by seamlessly blending tradition and innovation, reintroducing bespoke details to the realm of architecture," said Studio RAP.

The team used an innovative approach that uses state-of-the-art digital fabrication processes. All these manufacturing processes were produced in the studio's own manufacturing facility to print each bespoke 3D-printed ceramic tile. 

Replaced with an old façade, the new version of the façade enriches the famous shopping street's existing historic architecture with a new design language.

Achieved through algorithmic design, the team designed and produced 3D-printed ceramics, with an artisanal glazing. Thus, it resulted in an exciting and textural skin, inspired by the craft of knitting garments.

Innovating Algorithmic Design

"Using digital design algorithms designed in-house, the Ceramic House explores a reinterpretation of the decorative qualities and design vocabulary of glazed ceramics in the historical city of Amsterdam," said the studio. 

The team has replicated the silhouette of the original facade, continuing the characteristic tripartite structure of the street and maintaining the overall character of the site. 

The scale, size, type, and color of the ornaments and materials were all carefully synced with the neighbouring buildings to allow a seamless integration of traditional and contemporary architecture.

The design of the façade features intricate layers inspired by textiles—elegant creases, interlooping yarns, and stitch patterns. Its organic, wave-like quality changes as viewers approach the design from different angles. 

Gradually, as the line of vision moves, new elements within the custom ceramic tiles are unveiled, resulting in a luxury boutique that harmonizes with its historical environment, while standing out among the surrounding buildings.

Pioneering 3D-Printed Ceramic Tiles

To create this façade, the studio was inspired by the Rijksmuseum, the national museum of the Netherlands celebrated for its diverse ceramic collection from across the globe.

Through Studio RAP's own in-house, large-scale 3D-printing technology, the team realizes highly differentiated and algorithmically designed details. 

"This innovative approach underscores Studio RAP's commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural design," the team explained. 

"We have developed a distinctive digital fabrication process over several years, including the creation of advanced robotic systems." 

"We collaborate seamlessly with these robots to precisely craft intricate ceramic designs, showcasing the studio's commitment to excellence in architectural design," the studio continued.

Artisanal Glazing

At street level, large pearl white 3D-printed ceramic tiles, approximately designed in 40x20cm each, are perceived directly with a subtle touch of yellow, by a Dutch pottery company Royal Tichelaar. 

The studio designed these tiles to be visually expressive at eye level, while seamlessly transitioning to a flush alignment as they meet the ground, creating a harmonious and detailed aesthetic.

On the other hand, 3D-printed bricks glazed in three distinct shades of red were used on the upper floors.

The bricks are composed alongside the original masonry cross bond and have abstract ornamentation that fades as they travel higher. These bricks are put into laser-cut stainless steel cassettes, referring to the original flushes.

Studio RAP is a team of architects based in Rotterdam, is reshaping the traditional role of an architect. 

The firm's design philosophy is based on blending architecture with entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and craftsmanship, and reintroducing bespoke details to architectural designs.

Project facts

Project name: Ceramic House

Architect: Studio RAP

Location: P.C. Hooftstraat, Amsterdam (NL)

Client: Warenar Real Estate

Completion year: 2023

Co-Architect: Gietermans & Van Dijk

Contractor facade cladding / 3d-ceramic-printing: Studio RAP

Firing and glazing: Royal Tichelaar

Main contractor: Wessels Zeist (VolkerWessels)

All images © Studio RAP / Riccardo De Vecchi.

All drawings © Studio RAP. 

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3D printed 3D printing brick ceramic Studio RAP tile