The alpine village of Mulegns took center stage with the unveiling of Tor Alva, the world’s tallest 3D printed tower. This 30-meter white tower is a feat of modern engineering and a tangible example of how technology can be integrated with art, history and cultural revitalization.
Designed by Michael Hansmeyer and Benjamin Dillenburger and developed in collaboration between the ETH Zurich and the cultural foundation Origen, the structure seeks to do more than just amaze: it aims to offer an active cultural space in a community of only 11 inhabitants.
How was the world’s tallest 3d printed tower built?
The tower was built using 3D printing of structural concrete, eliminating traditional molds. Two robots work in coordination: one extrudes the concrete layers and another inserts reinforcement rings every 20 centimeters, while vertical bars are added later. This process, called “growing reinforcement,” allowed the printed elements to support real load, something unheard of until now.
The algorithms behind the design simultaneously generate ornamental and functional patterns, inspired by the layered pastries historically exported from Graubünden. The result is a branched, lightweight and strong structure culminating in an 8-meter dome that houses a theater seating 32 people.
Tor Alva combines technology and tradition
The objective of Tor Alva is not only experimental. It will be in place for approximately five years and will transform the village, hosting guided tours, theatrical performances and cultural activities that promote sustainable tourism and the value of local heritage.
Thanks to its demountable design, the tower can be moved to other locations in the future, prolonging its cultural impact and demonstrating that digital construction can be mobile, functional and beautiful.
This project is an example of what can be achieved when academia, industry and culture work together towards a future where architecture not only builds, but also connects and transforms.
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Source and photos: ETH Zurich | Tor Alva
