1.5 ConEd Learning Hours

10:30 a.m.‐12:00 p.m

Additive construction manufacturing (AC) is a disruptive construction technology that is redefining the way architects and engineers think about architecture, structures, and creativity in the built environment. In addition to the advantages over traditional construction methods, AC’s applications  are wide‐ranging—from resolving small‐scale structural problems through typology optimization to providing housing relief for post‐disaster recovery and building habitats in extreme and remote locations. While the industry of AC is still in its early stages, the technology has demonstrated the  potential to incorporate in‐situ resources, reduce material waste, and increase labour safety, while shrinking the supply chain. This makes AC an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional construction methods.

The possibilities of AC are far‐reaching and one of its key aspects is allowing architects to experiment, prototype, and create unique and even complex geometries that are otherwise challenging and costly to fabricate and build. More importantly, it paves the way for the architecture of the vernacular that respects the environment, speaks to native culture and local context, and reaffirms the identity of a place.

Learning Objectives

1. Learn about additive construction—the technology, the process, and how it compares to traditional construction methods.

2. Understand the advantages and opportunities as well as limitations and challenges of additive construction.

3. Gain insight into the possibilities offered by the wide‐ranging applications of AC using real‐life examples and case studies from current research and leading companies in the industry.

4. Understand the concept of In‐Situ resource utilization, typology optimization, rapid prototyping, and reverse engineering, and learn how AC can unlock creativity and the design for the vernacular while allowing for complex geometry and sensitive designs.

Tara Bisharat, OAA

Space and Earth Architect, Founder, Consultant, Designer

An Earth and Space Architect, Tara is an OAA Architect with experience in Germany and Canada. Tara’s project experience includes science and research centres, educational campuses, condominiums, and high‐rise projects. She completed a B.Sc. in Architecture and a M.Sc. in Space Architecture, and has a passion for designing and engineering habitats for extreme and extraterrestrial environments. Tara's field of study and research is in additive construction and innovative construction solutions for Earth and beyond, and her work focuses on systems engineering and mission planning for habitats that can be built in‐ situ using local materials and resources.