Altostrata: A 3D-Printed Parametric Pavilion

Doğukan Güngör
Sep 30
2 min read

Mamou-Mani Architects presents an innovative project that explores the potential of 3D printing technology and bioplastic materials: Altostrata. Built entirely from compostable sugar-based bioplastics and high-grade PLA (polylactic acid), this travelling pavilion offers a powerful vision of the future of circular design.

Altostrata is designed around the principles of reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle. Its modular structure allows it to be easily assembled and dismantled, making it possible to reconstruct the pavilion in different cities. First unveiled at the Sibiu International Theatre Festival 2023 in Romania, it was later showcased at Singapore Design Week 2023 and Dubai Design Week 2023.

The pavilion measures 30 meters in length and consists of 12 bespoke modules, each produced in just three weeks. Thanks to its parametrically optimized organic truss system, Altostrata ensures both portability and durability. In-house testing revealed that PLA, often considered less robust than petroleum-based polymers, can withstand up to 500 kg/m² of tensile force, proving to be much stronger than expected.

With its spiral form, Altostrata invites visitors into its center, creating not just a pavilion but also a hub for dialogue on circularity, community, and sustainable architecture. All components are fabricated to fit within standard shipping containers, making it easy to transport and reassemble from city to city.

By offering an alternative to the wasteful nature of temporary exhibition structures, Altostrata introduces a model that is reusable and repurposable. It points toward an architecture where materials are grown rather than mined, recycled rather than discarded, and produced locally while designed globally.