Editor’s Note
This article highlights a unique architectural fusion at Singapore’s Changi Airport, where Tiffany & Co.’s store features a sustainable facade designed by Moshe Safdie and MVRDV. It serves as a reminder of how modern design and environmental considerations can converge in unexpected, travel-oriented spaces.
If you are planning to travel to Singapore, you cannot miss this architectural work. Located at Singapore’s Changi International Airport, this store of the renowned luxury brand Tiffany & Co. has integrated an original facade that leaves no one indifferent. Specifically situated in the airport’s Piazza Garden, near Jewel Changi, the sustainable structure was designed by architect Moshe Safdie in collaboration with the firm MVRDV. The interesting aspect of this creation is the use of additive manufacturing and recycled materials as the production method, highlighting the brand’s commitment to sustainability. The Dutch company Aectual and several engineers from the Italian company BUROMILAN also participated in the 3D printing process of the facade for the Tiffany & Co. store. Its coral-inspired design and color combination catch the attention of any traveler passing through the airport.
It is increasingly common to see design projects using additive manufacturing to create decorative structures for stores, businesses, and commercial premises. In fact, earlier this year we learned about a 3D printed mural decorating the interior of a pastry shop in Seville. We also recall the new Ecoalf store that featured 3D printed furniture, which also opened in the first months of the year. Both these projects, like the 3D printed facade for Tiffany & Co., share a common strength. They have all used recycled plastic as the manufacturing material. This demonstrates the growing trend in the industry towards more sustainable and responsible processes.
During the creation process of the Tiffany store, the MVRDV team highlighted key aspects that emphasize the brand’s identity and history, including the incorporation of iconic elements like Tiffany Blue®, among others. Using coral reef patterns as a guide, they created an organic screen that covers the store’s facade. This screen includes screen-printed glass with a color gradient, ranging from the iconic Tiffany blue to a deeper blue evoking the marine environment. The gradient is repeated in multiple elements of the 3D printed design, such as at the store entrances, where the screen shows a gradient from light blue at the front to dark blue at the back. Furthermore, this gradient is inverted at the corners of the facade, with a gradual transition between both tones, creating a three-dimensional effect.
Additionally, innovation was also manifested in the materials used. The MVRDV team explains:
This choice, both in materials and technology, not only reflects the inspiration from the oceans but also contributes to their protection. The need to comply with strict airport fire safety regulations was resolved thanks to BUROMILAN. Its engineers added a chemical product manufactured with seawater, providing a unique solution.
