Vertico is proud to unveil its latest milestone in architectural 3D concrete printing through Aevum, an installation designed by Zaha Hadid Architects for this year’s INTERNI ‘Cre-Action’ exhibition at the Università degli Studi di Milano. Aevum, meaning ‘eternity’ in Latin, reflects both the timeless beauty of marble and the ongoing research of integrating stone waste to the modern construction methods.
Drawing inspiration from the Università degli Studi di Milano's courtyard, Aevum establishes a dialogue between historic architecture and future construction possibilities. The 6x6-metre installation consists of two arches offset from each other to create a dynamic interaction with the surrounding space.
One arch is carved from solid marble; the other is 3D printed by Vertico. Together, they form a compelling synergy between heritage craftsmanship and cutting-edge construction technology. From receiving the CAD model to delivering all the elements took just 2 weeks.
“This project is a real milestone; establishing the legitimacy of 3D printed concrete by juxtaposing it with established marble craftmanship. The speed, low cost, form freedom and short delivery times promised by additive manufacturing are showcased here.” — Volker Ruitinga, CEO, Vertico
Innovation in Material and Method
The Aevum arch was printed using Vertico’s proprietary Accelerator printhead and the 2K Sika cement mix (also developed with Vertico), allowing for extreme design flexibility, large overhangs, and non-planar geometries — crucial for executing ZHA’s complex design language. Mounted on Vertico’s robot-on-track system, the Accelerator printhead enabled seamless, high-resolution fabrication of the structure in a compressed timeline. There were only 7 days available for installation which proved challenging; exceptional work from Carpenterie Pezzetti and Eckersley O’Callaghan resulted in a groundbreaking installation.
Beyond form, the project represents a major step in circular design. Zaha Hadid Architects’ ongoing research incorporates marble dust waste — a by-product of the global stone processing industry — into 3D printable concrete. The goal: to reimagine waste as a core building material for the future.
A Bridge Across Time
Taking inspiration from the historic arches of the university’s courtyard, Aevum stands as a metaphor for architectural evolution. It connects centuries-old stone carving techniques with the digital precision of robotic printing, and links natural materials with algorithmic design.
By optimizing structural geometry and reducing material use, the installation highlights the ecological potential of additive manufacturing — demonstrating how design, engineering, and sustainability can converge. Moreover, with concrete printing Vertico wants to play a major role in returning to expressive architecture with a timeless quality.
“It is with good reason that the courtyard of the Università degli Studi di Milano is admired to this day, making it the ideal backdrop for this architectural conversation.” Volker Ruitinga, CEO, Vertico
