CeraShingle: Robotically 3D-Printed Ceramic Facade System Responds to Light
CeraShingle, a modular ceramic facade system, has been created by Studio WE, under the guidance of Yutao Chen and Yiwen Gu, utilizing robotic 3D printing and computational design. Each shingle, measuring 400 by 130 millimeters and weighing over one kilogram, showcases ridges, perforations, and glaze transitions that produce different visual effects depending on the angle of view and sunlight exposure. When installed with an overlap, these shingles generate a layered surface that interacts with daylight. The project incorporates parametric modeling for its geometry and surface features. Textured surfaces are produced by robotic arms, allowing for adaptability to various scales and conditions. Damaged shingles can be replaced individually, and material efficiency is enhanced through additive manufacturing and locally sourced resources, blending ceramic craftsmanship with digital fabrication.
Key facts
- CeraShingle is a modular ceramic facade system by Studio WE.
- Each shingle measures approx. 400 x 130 mm and weighs over 1 kg.
- Shingles are robotically 3D-printed in clay.
- Surface variations include ridges, perforations, glaze transitions, and geometric patterns.
- The facade responds to daylight, changing with viewing angle and solar exposure.
- Parametric modeling controls geometry and wall thickness across modules.
- The system allows independent replacement of damaged units.
- Locally sourced clay and low-temperature glazes are explored for sustainability.
Entities
Artists
- Yutao Chen
- Yiwen Gu
Institutions
- Studio WE
- designboom