Tor Alva: World’s Tallest 3D-Printed Tower Unveiled in Swiss Alps
A 30-meter (98.4-foot) tall 3D-printed structure now rises in the quaint Swiss village of Mulegns. Named Tor Alva, or “White Tower,” it holds the record as the tallest 3D-printed tower in the world. The project was developed by ETH Zurich and Nova Fundaziun Origen.
Composed of 32 concrete columns 3D-printed off-site over five months, the parts were transported and assembled atop an existing building. The tower features four floors, a domed roof, and a spiral staircase that links all levels. At the summit, there’s a dedicated performance space for music, theater, and art.
Guided tours began on May 23, 2025, with cultural events scheduled to start in July. The tower is expected to remain in Mulegns for five years and is designed to be dismantled and relocated if necessary.
n the serene alpine village of Mulegns, Switzerland, a groundbreaking architectural feat has emerged: Tor Alva, or “White Tower” in Romansh. Standing at an impressive 30 meters (98.4 feet), it now holds the title of the world’s tallest 3D-printed building. This innovative structure is the result of a collaboration between ETH Zurich and the Nova Fundaziun Origen, aiming to blend advanced construction technology with cultural revitalization.
A Beacon in a Village of Eleven
Mulegns, nestled along the historic Julier Pass, is home to just 11 residents. Once a bustling hub for merchants and confectioners, the village has faced significant depopulation over the years. Tor Alva stands as a symbol of hope and renewal, aiming to attract visitors and breathe new life into this quiet community.
Architectural Marvel: Design and Structure
Designed by architect Michael Hansmeyer and ETH Professor Benjamin Dillenburger, Tor Alva showcases the possibilities of computational design and digital fabrication. The tower comprises 32 unique 3D-printed concrete columns, each featuring intricate ornamentation reminiscent of Baroque craftsmanship. These columns support four floors, culminating in a domed cupola that serves as a performance space.
Key Features:
- Height: 30 meters (98.4 feet)
- Floors: Four, connected by a spiral staircase
- Columns: 32 unique 3D-printed concrete columns
- Performance Space: Located at the summit under a domed roof
- Capacity: Accommodates up to 32 visitors simultaneously
Innovative Construction Techniques
The construction of Tor Alva employed cutting-edge 3D printing technology. Over 900 hours, 124 custom elements, including 48 structural columns, were printed off-site using a specially developed concrete mix. This mix was soft enough to bond delicate structures yet hardened quickly to support subsequent layers. A robotic arm extruded the concrete in thin, precise layers, eliminating the need for traditional formwork.
To ensure structural integrity, a second robotic arm inserted steel reinforcement rings every 20 centimeters during the printing process. This method, described as “growing reinforcement,” allows the 3D-printed elements to be load-bearing—a significant advancement in digital construction.
Cultural Significance and Revitalization
Tor Alva is more than an architectural achievement; it’s a cultural initiative aimed at revitalizing Mulegns. The tower’s design pays homage to the village’s history, particularly the emigration of local confectioners who spread their craft across Europe. The structure’s layered appearance evokes an ornate cake, symbolizing this heritage
Starting May 23, 2025, guided tours of Tor Alva are available daily, offering visitors insight into its construction and cultural significance. From July onwards, the tower will host live performances, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub. Designed for a five-year tenure in Mulegns, the modular structure can be dismantled and relocated, ensuring its legacy continues elsewhere.
Sustainable and Forward-Thinking Design
Tor Alva exemplifies sustainable construction practices. The use of 3D printing reduces material waste and allows for intricate designs without additional resources. The modular nature of the tower ensures it can be reassembled in new locations, extending its lifespan and utility.
ETH Zurich’s involvement underscores the project’s commitment to advancing digital building technologies. The collaboration has resulted in innovations that could redefine construction methods, emphasizing efficiency, sustainability, and aesthetic freedom.
Conclusion
Tor Alva stands as a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation. By marrying advanced 3D printing techniques with cultural heritage, the project not only sets a new benchmark in architecture but also offers a blueprint for revitalizing rural communities. As visitors ascend its spiral staircase, they don’t just witness a structural marvel—they become part of a narrative that celebrates history, embraces technology, and looks toward a sustainable future
