ICFAI School Of Architecture Organises National Symposium

ICFAI School of Architecture (ISArch), Hyderabad, in collaboration with the National Centre for Additive Manufacturing (NCAM), Hyderabad, organised a National Symposium on "Redefining the Creative Boundaries of Architecture & Construction with 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing Technology" on October 19, 2024 at Hotel Abode, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad. 

The keynote Speaker

In his  keynote address, Suryakumar S, Dean, Innovation, Translation & Startups, IIT Hyderabad, highlighted the revolutionary potential of 3D printing in architecture and construction.  Jaspreet Sidhu, CEO, NCAM Hyderabad provided a comprehensive presentation on the latest developments in additive manufacturing technology, focusing on its practical applications in the building and design sectors. 

Guest speakers

Ar. L Krishna Murthy, Folds Design Studio, Mumbai, discussed the creative possibilities of 3D printing in architecture showcasing some of the examples that are implemented by his studio using 3D printing methods.  Najeeb Shariff Mohammad, IIT Bombay, in his speech offered insights into cutting-edge research on new materials and processes in additive manufacturing. Hrithik Thakur and MSarath Raj from TVASTA, Chennai, shared their experiences with 3D-printed construction projects, emphasising cost optimisation and design feasibility; Kraveenthar Kamal, Maker Global, Hyderabad, explored the synergy between technology and architectural design.

Themes of the symposium

The symposium addressed three main themes: the current and future implications of 3D printing in architectural design and construction, the research and development of new building materials for additive manufacturing, and the economic feasibility and cost optimisation of 3D-printed structures. The event aimed to create a dialogue between architects, engineers and additive manufacturing professionals to identify the industry's needs and drive advancements in 3D printing technologies tailored to architectural applications.

Panel discussion 

A dynamic panel discussion followed and  moderated by Ms. Swetha Gandra of NCAM Hyderabad, featuring industry leaders such as Ar. L Krishna Murthy of Folds Design Studio, Mr. Shreesha CV of Imaginarium, Mumbai, Mr. Suman Gowda of Philips Additive, Navi Mumbai, and Mr. Lakshmi Narayana of EDS Technologies, Hyderabad. The panel explored the challenges, opportunities, and future directions of 3D printing in the construction industry, with a focus on material innovation, cost-efficiency, and redefining design approaches.

The symposium succeeded in showcasing the potential of 3D printing to break creative barriers in architecture and set new standards for design and construction innovation. The discussions and presentations at the event reinforced the importance of collaboration between different stakeholders to further refine and develop 3D printing technology for the construction industry.

Opening remarks

LS Ganesh, Vice-Chancellor, ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education, welcomed the gathering virtually and spoke about the importance of the Symposium. The event was graced by  N Sobharani Yasawy, Chairperson ICFAI Society; Venkat Peesapati, Design Chair of ISArch and experts from the fields of architecture, civil engineering and additive manufacturing to discuss the future potential of 3D printing in reshaping the design and construction industry.  The Symposium was sponsored by KMV Projects and Navni Systems.