Beyond Transparency
In the second 11-week module of the second trimester of the MAS ETH programme in Architecture and Digital Fabrication, students explored advanced digital fabrication techniques for glass, culminating in the realisation of a full-scale construction project.
Building on research into multi-coloured glass printing and free-form glass kilning, the project reimagined traditional kiln-glass manufacturing through state-of-the-art digital methods. Students investigated the creative potential of integrating fabrication processes, materiality, colour, and geometry, experimenting with how digital technologies can enhance the architectural possibilities of glass. The focus was on exploring the interplay between form, colour, light, and process parameters to develop innovative design approaches.
The project’s outcome was a 1:1 scale immersive installation—a room-sized, walkable light-colour space. This installation showcased the architectural potential of glass beyond its conventional roles of transparency and filtration, instead transforming its environment in a novel and dynamic way. The project demonstrated how combining traditional techniques with digital advancements can redefine the role of glass in architecture.
Digital Building Technologies
Prof. Benjamin Dillenburger
Teaching Team: Rena Giesecke (Project lead), Ioanna Mitroupoulou, Rémy Clemente, Eleni Skevaki, Yael Ifrah (MAS ETH DFAB coordination)
Technical Support: Tobias Hartmann, Alessandro Tellini, Christian Egli, Fabio Meier, Christian Peterhans, Benedikt Kowalewski
Glass Fabrication Consulting: Matteo Gonet Glass Basel
Sponsors: Saint Gobain, AF Fercher AG, Swiss Re Institute
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