Landscape
The Block, Garden Bed
A run of 3D printed garden beds for The Block 2022.
Type
Printed garden bed
Location
Macedon Ranges, VIC
Client
The Block, Nine
Delivery model
On-site OPUS printing
Print time
1 day
Material
5 t ContourCrete
Result
Small-scale proof of curved landscape elements and repeatable printed forms
Recognition
The Block 2022, Nine
The challenge
Show that curved landscape forms can come straight from the file, with no extra cost or tooling for the curve.
The solution
Each bed curves in plan and carries a deep rippled face, both straight off the printer. Built conventionally that is blockwork, render and a curved formwork set for every bend.
Printing & technology
The run took around 1 day of print time and 5 tonnes of ContourCrete. Printed, the curve costs the same as a straight line.
Delivery & results
The smallest work on this site and the clearest demonstration of what changes when the form is decided in the file instead of in formwork. The same print that makes a wall makes a planter, a bench or a bed, with no tooling to pay for.