For three years, the AirMesh pavilion sat atop a grassy knoll at Gardens by the Bay. Both a gathering space and light sculpture, it is the first architectural structure in the world made entirely of 3D-printed stainless steel components and can be assembled using just hex keys.
AirMesh technology is the brainchild of Airlab, a design research laboratory based at the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD). Advanced algorithms enables the design of a lightweight and efficient structure that can adapt to any form, cutting material usage by up to 80 percent compared to conventional methods.
As founder and director, Carlos Bañon spearheads a change in the way architecture is conceptualised and realised in an ever-evolving environment. And in keeping sustainability central to the centre’s mission, he ensures that the team participates in diverse eco-conscious designs and practices. Another Airlab project comprises processing plastic bottles into flakes and converting them into 3D printing filaments.
Bañon moved to Singapore from the Spanish city of Alicante in 2014, after accepting an invitation to join SUTD in an academic venture developed in partnership with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
His current research revolves around two technologies. The first is artificial intelligence in architectural design, which explores how AI challenges and redefines sustainable practices in architecture. “This enables me to push the envelope of what’s conceptually possible in design,” he says.
Second, 3D printing in the built environment. Due to its ability to precisely control material placement, 3D printing is a crucial tool for materialising intricate geometries generated through AI. It not only effectuates cutbacks in material consumption, but also facilitates mass customisation without inflating costs.
In Bañon’s view, AI and 3D printing are more than technological innovations—they are instruments that will enable a new era of sustainable and innovative architecture. But they must be wielded carefully. “They are not just mere tools, but a crucial skill set for addressing the multifaceted challenges we face today.”
He engages complex processes such as creative coding techniques to generate and print complex geometries and decode intricate contexts. The aim is simple: create spaces that conserve resources.
“Sustainability goes beyond eco-friendly labels and opting for certified materials. It’s about making informed decisions that lead to the judicious use of resources,” he reasons.
Carlos Bañon on the need for a deeper dive into sustainable practices
These decisions include maximising locally sourced materials and fabrication methods, stimulating the local economy, enhancing community well-being, and minimising waste through relevant design choices.
Bañon believes Singapore still has room for progress, especially since air-conditioning consumes considerable energy. In his opinion, it would be to our advantage that we embrace indigenous architectural solutions such as cross-ventilated spaces and tropics-adapted shading strategies.
“This transformation requires more than just architectural innovation; it calls for a cultural mindset shift. Singapore has the potential to pioneer a unique form of ‘advanced tropicalism’, where buildings can act as active contributors to environmental health, rather than passive recipients of green technologies.”
Art director: Chia Wei Choong
Videographer: Alicia Chong
Photographer: Mun Kong
Photographer’s assistant: Alfred Phang
Makeup: Wee Ming using NARS
Hair: Jenny Ng
Car: Mercedes Benz EQS SUV
