In the remote village of Mulegns, a remarkable feat of architecture has not only captured the imagination of many but also revived the spirit of a community. This story showcases how technology and creativity can breathe new life into a small town, bringing together history, innovation, and a hopeful future.

Nestled in the stunning Swiss Alps, Mulegns is home to just 11 inhabitants. Yet, against all odds, this tranquil village now boasts the world’s tallest 3D-printed structure, the mesmerizing Tor Alva. Towering four stories high, the striking white tower harmoniously integrates with the beautiful Julier Pass landscape.

The unveiling of the Tor Alva was nothing short of dramatic. As a helicopter lifted the tarp covering, onlookers gasped at the sight of this architectural masterpiece. Crafted by the Origen cultural foundation with the expertise of ETH Zurich, the tower signifies much more than technical prowess; it’s a beacon of hope for Mulegns, facing challenges of depopulation.

The unique design of the structure draws inspiration from an elaborate layered cake, symbolizing the village’s rich history of confectioners who once spread their craft throughout Europe. With its 32 intricately shaped white concrete columns that taper and branch like trees, Tor Alva creates an inviting, dome-like space at the top, ready to welcome visitors.

Architect Michael Hansmeyer, alongside ETH Professor Benjamin Dillenburger, pioneered a novel construction method, renegotiating the boundaries of traditional architecture. Instead of utilizing conventional molds, they embraced additive manufacturing, enabling an industrial robot to build the tower layer by layer using advanced algorithms to ensure both beauty and strength.

For this groundbreaking project, a specialized concrete mix was vital. Developed by ETH’s Professor Robert Flatt, the blend allowed the delicate elements of the structure to bond while hardening swiftly. The unique texture on the columns, resembling droplets, was a testament to the team’s commitment to innovation.

“Combining the latest research insights with practical applications has allowed us to push the boundaries of what 3D printing can achieve,” said Joël Mesot, President of ETH Zurich. This initiative not only serves to beautify Mulegns but also offers invaluable hands-on experience to researchers and students.

Unlike traditional constructions, the 3D-printed elements of the Tor Alva also provide structural support—an unprecedented feat. The process utilizes a two-robot system: one fabricates the concrete while the other installs reinforcement materials, enhancing the tower’s stability.

Over the course of five months, the intricate columns were printed and then transported through the Alpine landscape to their new home in Mulegns. Today, the Tor Alva welcomes visitors, with plans for guided tours and cultural performances starting this summer, projecting a sense of joy and revitalization across the village.

In a world where small communities can often be overlooked, Mulegns’ story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for creativity and collaboration to transform lives. The White Tower is not simply a structure; it encapsulates hope, ingenuity, and the indomitable human spirit.

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