3D-printed ceramics transform power infrastructure into industrial heritage of the future

A new piece of power infrastructure, "Switchstation Beverwijk," designed by architecture firm Powerhouse Company with an architectural artwork by Rotterdam-based design studio Studio RAP, has been completed near the Bazaar in Beverwijk, the Netherlands. Commissioned by Dutch transmission system operator TenneT Netherlands to meet the area's growing electricity demand, the 150 kV switchstation was designed by Powerhouse Company. Integrated into its brick facade is "Powerwall" by Studio RAP. Composed of 322 robotically 3D-printed ceramic tiles, the 8-by-5-meter installation is one of the world's largest robotically 3D-printed ceramic artworks.

Powerwall - Studio RAP
Photo credit: Pim Top

Power infrastructure with a public presence

The area surrounding the Bazaar, long characterized by large-scale commerce and technical infrastructure, is undergoing a transformation that will introduce housing, workspaces, public spaces, and a renewed connection to the waterfront. As the switchstation will become a central piece of infrastructure within this future neighborhood, Powerhouse Company approached its design from the perspective of creating "industrial heritage of the future." The building consists of two complementary volumes: a taller brick volume containing the primary electrical installation and a lower metal volume housing secondary functions. Deep brick piers give the facade rhythm and depth, while sculptural metal louvers wrap the lower volume and visually connect the two parts. Their gently undulating surfaces create changing patterns of shadow, helping to soften the scale and technical character of the facility within its urban surroundings.

Translating electromagnetic fields into ceramic relief

Integrated into the brick facade, Studio RAP's "Powerwall" is an architectural artwork inspired by the invisible electromagnetic fields generated inside the switchstation. The movement of electromagnetic forces is translated into a flowing relief, visually expressing a technical function that would otherwise remain unseen. Using computational design, Studio RAP developed 322 individually shaped ceramic tiles. Each tile was produced at the studio's Rotterdam workshop using in-house robotic 3D clay printing, creating subtle variations in form, texture, and depth. After firing, the tiles were finished with a translucent turquoise glaze. As the glaze settles into the grooves and recessed areas, it emphasizes the three-dimensional qualities of the relief and creates a facade whose appearance changes with sunlight and viewing angle. From a distance, the vivid color and sweeping forms attract attention, while closer inspection reveals the intricate details produced through the robotic 3D-printing process.

Infrastructure as part of the future cityscape

As the energy transition progresses, transformer stations and switchstations are becoming increasingly integral to urban environments. Although they are not public buildings, they occupy a visible place in the everyday lives of people who live and move around them. "Switchstation Beverwijk" integrates architecture and art into infrastructure that requires a high degree of security and functionality. Rather than separating the technical facility from its surroundings, the project positions it as part of an evolving urban landscape. Through their collaboration, Powerhouse Company and Studio RAP transform essential power infrastructure into "industrial heritage of the future" capable of contributing to the identity of tomorrow's neighborhood.

Powerwall - Studio RAP
Photo credit: Pim Top

About Powerhouse Company

Powerhouse Company is an international architecture firm with studios in Rotterdam, Munich, Oslo, and Nairobi. Founded in 2005, the practice has grown into a multidisciplinary team of more than 100 designers and specialists. Its portfolio ranges from adaptive reuse and residential developments to interiors, private villas, and public buildings. The firm develops integrated design solutions that combine timeless beauty, technical precision, and an ongoing focus on innovation.

About Studio RAP

Studio RAP is a Rotterdam-based architecture and design studio that brings digital craftsmanship to architecture. Using computational design and in-house robotic 3D clay printing, the studio creates large-scale ceramic facades, ornaments, and architectural artworks. Working with architects, developers, and public clients, Studio RAP develops context-driven ceramic designs for buildings around the world.