MILANO ARCH WEEK. The Buckminster Fuller Project pavillion inauguration

During Milan Arch Week 2025, the Terrazze Bonardi at the Politecnico di Milano will host the construction of the Basketry Tensegrity Geodesic Dome, the result of a process of research and experimentation that combines history, innovation, and sustainability.

The dome, based on the original design by Buckminster Fuller and recreated by architect Deacon Marvel with the support of The Estate of R. Buckminster Fuller, is an emblematic example of Fullerian thinking, founded on the balance between structural lightness and spatial integrity, but following the principles of self-construction and awareness.

The project was developed as part of the second edition of the Master's program in Material Balance Design. Digital Techniques and Circular Innovation in Architecture, directed by Prof. Ingrid Paoletti. The contemporary reinterpretation of the dome was born from the teaching module curated by the ATI Project studio, which guided students in the exploration of advanced digital techniques and artificial intelligence, promoting an experimental and collaborative approach. The result is a prototype that integrates a knitted skin, obtained from recycled yarns and modelled using computational tools, in dialogue with the wooden structure, exploring the relationship between structure, material, and digital process as a device for technological and environmental innovation.

The parametric redesign of the original structure allowed for greater control over the structure. This resulted in optimized rod dimensions, reducing the amount of material needed, and their positioning, allowing for greater correspondence between the major and minor arches, reducing gaps and errors. A new connection system with 3D-printed elements and recycled nylon rope has made it possible to manage tolerances more efficiently, while maintaininga high level of flexibility and ease of installation.

The knitted envelope is made by working two different types of yarn, both from pre-consumer recycled polyester. This guarantees a high-quality starting product, making it suitable for use in architecture. Its unique feature is its low-melt characteristic: when heated, the fabric changes its mechanical properties, hardening and becoming more resistant and adaptable to different applications. This made it possible to assemble and adapt the skin directly on-site.

The project was made possible thanks to the contribution of several partner companies, including LignoAlp, Indorama Ventures, Rimond, Aivox, Evangelisti di Passarin Amerigo, and with the support of the MaBa.SAPERLab and TAN - Textile Architecture Network laboratories of the DABC Department, which supported the experimentation of innovative materials and construction solutions.

The inauguration of the Basketry Tensegrity Geodesic Dome will take place on October 29, 2025, at Terrazze Bonardi, Via Bonardi 9. The project, curated by Prof. Ingrid Paoletti and Prof. Mariacristina Loi, reflects on the relevance of Fuller's thinking in the age of artificial intelligence, fueling new scenarios for research, training, and design innovation.