De Expeditie, Arnhem

In April 2023, an innovative outdoor classroom and stage made of 3D-printed concrete were realized at the green-blue schoolyard of De Expeditie primary school in Arnhem. Designed by landscape architect Donny Thieme from Bureau RIS in collaboration with 3D.Weber, these elements serve not only as functional seating but also as educational tools. The inner print layers are exposed on the ends of the seating elements, giving children a hands-on introduction to cutting-edge technology.

A key advantage of these 3D printed structures is their lightweight design, eliminating the need for expensive foundations. Traditional methods would have required eight different molds, significantly increasing costs. Donny Thieme explained: "A small adjustment to an element costs nothing extra. Plus, we opted for a waffle pattern by slightly widening the nozzle during the printing process. Anything is possible."

This project showcases the versatility and efficiency of 3D concrete printing technology. It gives designers the freedom to create unique, custom-made structures that are both functional and visually appealing. Additionally, it contributes to sustainability by optimizing material usage and minimizing waste. This outdoor classroom serves as an inspiring example of how modern technology can enhance educational environments, enriching the learning experience while improving infrastructure.