Aedes complete an intricate 3D printed façade for BOSS in Istanbul
Stefaan Devooght

Aedes complete an intricate 3D printed façade for BOSS in Istanbul

9 Sep 2024  •  News  •  By Allie Shiell

In today's market, storefronts are evolving rapidly to capture consumer attention. At Istinye Park in Istanbul, this recently renovated BOSS store stands out with a new 3D-printed façade that merges sustainable design with cutting-edge technology. A collaboration between BOSS, Ippolito Fleitz Group, and design and technology company Aectual, it uses 3D-printed waste materials to create a circular storefront. 

photo_credit Stefaan Devooght
Stefaan Devooght

The design brief was clear: create a visually dynamic and structurally sound façade that would set the store apart in Istanbul's busting commercial landscape. Aectual achieved this by utilizing its large-scale 3D printing technology, which allows for intricate detailing and customization while maintaining environmental sustainability. 

Unlike traditional construction methods, 3D printing produces highly complex and customizable forms that would otherwise be difficult or expensive to achieve. For the Boss façade, this technology allowed for the creation of unique patterns and textures, lending the building a sense of depth and movement. 

photo_credit Stefaan Devooght
Stefaan Devooght

The façade concept is inspired by textile weaving and the delicate wefts and warps found in BOSS garments. The printed façade covers 73 square meters and comprises 136 uniquely printed pieces that seamlessly interlock like a giant puzzle. 

Aside from its eye-catching appeal, the architectural feature provides practical benefits, such as shading and temperature regulation, merging beauty with functionality. The façade's intricate patterns cast dynamic shadows as the sun moves across the sky, creating a constantly shifting visual experience. This interaction with natural light adds another layer of interest to the building, making it a standout feature in the urban environment.

photo_credit Stefaan Devooght
Stefaan Devooght

Aectual is committed to sustainability, and this project is no exception. The façade was printed using a fully recycled bioplastic material, reducing the construction process's environmental impact. This aligns with Aectual and BOSS's shared commitment to eco-friendly practices, making the façade a design triumph and an example of responsible building. 

The efficiency of 3D printing also means that material waste was minimized during production. Traditional construction methods often result in significant waste, but with 3D printing, materials are used more efficiently, leading to a lower carbon footprint. 

photo_credit Stefaan Devooght
Stefaan Devooght

The BOSS façade in Istanbul is just one example of how 3D printing is reshaping the future of architecture. As this technology continues to evolve, it opens up new possibilities for architects and designers to create buildings that are not only beautiful but also sustainable and efficient. Aectual's work on this project demonstrates the potential of 3d printing to revolutionize the way we think about building design by blending form, function, and environmental responsibility.