LANXESS’s advanced inorganic pigments have brought a splash of colour to concrete architecture through a striking 3D-printed sculpture titled “Duality of Skin and Core”, currently exhibited at the “Time. Space. Existence.” show during the Venice Architecture Biennale. The sculpture is the result of a collaboration between Eindhoven University of Technology’s Assistant Professor Cristina Nan and architect Mattia Zucco, supported by LANXESS and Dutch 3D-printing specialist Vertico.

The column-like structure explores architectural experimentation using red and black iron oxide pigments from LANXESS’s Bayferrox and Colortherm ranges. The pigments helped redefine the traditional grey look of concrete, introducing vivid colour and high-definition patterning. Designed in a modular format, the structure comprises nine lightweight drums and four wings, each weighing less than 30 kg, allowing for easy transport, assembly, and reuse—principles aligned with sustainable and circular design strategies.

This project demonstrates how digital manufacturing, aesthetic creativity, and structural performance can be combined in 3D concrete printing. The slit-like openings in the sculpture’s outer surface expose its colourful inner core, breaking away from monolithic design norms and referencing the duality between form and material. The approach pays homage to ancient Roman and Greek columns while enabling modern construction flexibility.

To ensure the pigments work effectively in 3D-printed concrete applications, LANXESS is conducting research in collaboration with the Institute of Construction Materials at TU Dresden. Early results indicate that the pigments do not alter concrete properties while delivering vibrant, consistent colour output—unlocking new design and commercial possibilities for architectural concrete applications worldwide.