mawj is a 3D-printed armchair that explores the possibilities of robotic 3D-printing

designed by MEAN* middle east architecture network — mawj is a 3D-printed armchair that explores the possibilities of robotic 3D-printing for designing and producing bespoke furniture. manufactured by nagami, the chair takes shape based on a continuous form, printed on its side with a thickness of just 6mm, using advanced plastic polymers.

images by luis filipe

derived from the arabic word mawj — meaning wave, undulate, crisp or ripple — the chair references the undulating patterns of the aquamarine green surface reminiscent of the arabian sea waters at the shores of dubai. its dimensions are borrowed from the proportions found on the eames lounge chair, while a sequence of design iterations form the shape of the chair using algorithmic design processes. a series of lines moving in space form the layers for 3D printing in one single layer, the lines progressively form sine curves as they wrap around the form. on every other layer, the curve inverts to a negative value, generating a weaving pattern that makes larger rippling undulations on the surface.

the pattern aids in the structural stiffness, as well as creating a unique aesthetic feature, which naturally emerges as the result of the parametric modeling of the chair. following a series of prototypes, careful attention to small details in the making of the chair develops the outcome. the pattern fades out towards the edges and intensifies at the top, avoiding areas where the back would rest. the pattern continuously wraps around the billowing surface, doubly curved for structural stability.

project info:

name: mawj – 3D printed chair
architecture firm: MEAN* middle east architecture network
designer: riyad joucka
fabrication: nagami
project location: dubai, UAE
size: 0.6 sqm
tools used: rhino, grasshopper, blender
design year: 2020
status: completed
typology: product design
photos: luis filipe