Language
Country/Area
No result found
At MIT, how is Oxman using 3D printing to reshape our architectural future?
Neri Oxman, an Israeli-American designer and former MIT professor, is recognized for her innovative work that combines design, biology, computing and materials engineering. Her work is not just art, but an emerging design philosophy - "material ecology". Under her leadership, the MIT Media Materials Research Group explores the potential of 3D printing technology and challenges our traditional understanding of architectural design.
Oxman's research is not just about technological innovation, but about finding harmony between humans and nature.
Oxman was born in Haifa, Israel, in 1976. She grew up in her parents' architectural studio and was deeply inspired by architectural design. She began her studies at the Hebrew University of Medicine, eventually turning to architecture, completing her studies at the Architectural Association School in London. In 2006, she launched an interdisciplinary research project called "Material Ecology" at MIT to explore the possibilities of generative design. This new design philosophy emphasizes biological inspiration and incorporates the latest technologies to create structures that grow and build themselves.
3D printing technology occupies a core position in Oxman's design philosophy. Her projects include various buildings that make use of natural materials, such as the "Silk Pavilion", woven with silk, and the "Agua Joja" piece, based on the water-soluble organic fiber "chitin". These creations challenge the boundaries of traditional building materials and point out that our and future architectural design concepts should pay more attention to sustainability and eco-friendliness.
"Oxman's work makes architecture no longer just a combination of physical spaces, but an ecosystem full of life."
In the Media Matter group, Oxman works with a group of scientists, artists, and engineers to develop new printing platforms, such as the G3DP, the first 3D printer capable of printing optically clear glass. This printer can not only precisely control pigmentation, transparency and thickness, but also break the inherent limitations of materials, combining art and science to create completely new forms.
Over the past few years, Oxman’s designs have not been limited to architecture, as her creations have also included wearable installations and furniture. Her "Imagine Life" series and collaboration with musician Björk use 3D printing technology to create works that are not only visually striking but also interactive with the natural world. The works explore human interaction with the environment, bridging technology and nature.
“Design is never isolated, it should be a way to promote cultural dialogue and reshape values.”
However, Oxman's work goes beyond that. Her research in biosynthesis and machine learning aims to create smart materials that are interdependent with their environment and can self-regulate in response to external changes, including factors such as light and humidity. The results of this research enable new buildings to be more institutionally and aesthetically friendly.
As the principal researcher of MIT's Media Materials Group, Oxman's influence spreads across the design and technology circles. The open journal "Design Science" she launched breaks the boundaries of traditional disciplines and vows to explore the intersection of the four fields of art, science, design and engineering. Her ideas continue to push the boundaries of design, prompting more researchers to rethink the relationship between humans and nature.
“Design is not about consuming natural resources, but about editing and transforming them.”
While Airbnb, Square, and various startups are focused on disrupting traditional business models, Oxman uses her design philosophy to remind us that while pursuing progress, we need to look back to the wisdom of nature and learn how to coexist with it.
She mentioned in her TED Talk that the future of design lies in "bioengineering," which means no longer relying solely on proprietary technology, but incorporating ideas of self-healing and reinforcing materials. Future buildings should not only be human habitats, but also become part of the ecosystem.
Oxman's research work has attracted widespread attention and inspiration, especially in the architecture and design circles. Her designs are not only a response to the past, but also a vision for the future. As technology develops and environmental awareness increases, we can’t help but wonder: What form will our buildings take in the future?
