The Tor Alva tower, also known as The White Tower, has recently been completed in the alpine village of Mulegns, Switzerland. At a height of 30 meters (or about 10 stories), it is officially titled the world’s tallest 3D-printed building. Combining cutting-edge digital fabrication and sustainable construction techniques, this innovative structure marks a significant milestone in modern architecture.
This project brought together architects, engineers, and researchers from various fields led by Origen Cultural Foundation and ETH Zurich to create a structure that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in construction.
Tor Alva is a fusion of art, science, and technology. Built using 3D-printed concrete, Tor Alva is a striking example of how additive manufacturing is reshaping the construction industry. The tower features 32 unique, load-bearing columns, each designed and printed individually. By leveraging 3D printing technology, the project reduces material waste, lowers energy consumption, and creates more precise, customizable designs.
The building houses a cupola theater, an immersive performance space surrounded by the distinctive branching columns. This venue is designed to offer artists and audiences a unique experience, with architecture that invites interaction and engagement. The design draws inspiration from the Baroque craftsmanship of the Grisons region, blending historical influences with futuristic technology.
Check out the official unveiling video from the Digital Building Technologies YouTube page below:
Beyond its architectural significance, Tor Alva plays a vital role in revitalizing the village of Mulegns in Graubünden, Switzerland. Mulegns, a small, historically rich community which once thrived as a destination for travelers crossing the historic Julier Pass, is now positioning itself as a hub for architectural innovation and tourism. While it’s had a large decline in population over recent years, with only a few dozen residents remaining, Tor Alva is expected to draw visitors from around the world, both for its groundbreaking design and its potential as a venue for cultural events, and is an important step for creating new opportunities for the region.
Tor Alva is a fusion of art, science, and technology. and significant step forward in the movement toward more sustainable, adaptable, and creative forms of architecture. This tower is more than just a physical structure, representing a shift in building. It brings together artistic vision, scientific research, and digital tools to create something both functional and culturally meaningful.
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