In honor of Sir David Attenborough's 90th birthday, Timothy Hatton Architects created an intricate Christmas installation,
made entirely from 100% recycled 3D printed parts.
This project not only highlights the importance of protecting our natural environment but also demonstrates how beautiful 3D printing can be.
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.
The 3D printed piece, made using recycled materials, 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 for the charity for nearly 60 years.
When we first investigated 3D printing, it was clear that the 3D printing industry was technologically disruptive and would put further pressure on the environment.
Finding eco-friendly plastics is key to the success of 3D printing.
The Art Installation
The installation is located in the most eye-catching central area of London's Aqua Shard. It features 3,000 intricately 3D printed leaf veins, depicting five threatened British
trees, including the English oak, silver birch, and field maple.
The nine-meter-long installation, spanning three stories within the restaurant, emphasizes the beauty of the British countryside and the importance of protecting it.
Notably, all 3D printed elements of the installation are made from 100% recycled plastic derived from household waste, which would otherwise end up in landfills if not recycled.
Designed by Timothy Hatton Architects, each leaf will be sold, with all proceeds donated to charity.
3D Printing and Ecological Responsibility
By using 3D printing in this way, guests at Aqua Shard can not only admire the art itself but also create art using recycled materials.
Sir David Attenborough summarized his impression of the project: "Timothy Hatton's installation at Aqua Shard captures the fragility of nature, finds beauty in diversity, and reflects on some of our behaviors and our 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 works tirelessly to halt the wave 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, while technologically disruptive, would put further pressure 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 accuracy."
Click here to learn more about this inspiring installation.
Original link: https://ultimaker.com/en/stories/34816-3d-printed-architectural-design-meets-eco-charity