Aevum installation at Milan University by Zaha Hadid Architects, ZHA design project images

Aevum installation at Milan University

7 April 2025

Design: Zaha Hadid Architects

Location: Milan, Italy

Aevum installation at Milan University, Italy

Digital technology meets craftsmanship in an installation that explores the future of marble processing. Aevum celebrates the renowned qualities of marble and experiments with new ways of using the waste from stone production for the construction industry.

Aevum – meaning eternity in Latin – is an ongoing experimental research project by Zaha Hadid Architects to develop a printing mixture that includes waste marble dust, and also has the structural properties necessary for large-scale architecture.

Informed by the historic colonnade of the Courtyard of Honour at Milan University, Aevum consists of three arches of differing heights, one arch carved from marble, the other two 3D-printed from a cement mix, creating an immersive installation that combines advanced construction technologies with craftsmanship – expressing a vision of the future where innovation and tradition coexist.

The 6×6 meter installation is composed of three arches with heights of 4 metres, 5.5 metres and 7 metres – defining a dynamic relationship with the surrounding 18th century courtyard.

The lowest arch is sculpted in Bianco Merano Gold marble from the Alps, produced by A.A.T.C. and Co., while the other two are 3D printed with a proprietary cement mix developed by Sika and Vertico.

Spotlights designed and supplied by Griven are incorporated within Aevum’s steel podium. The installation has been developed with the support of Eckersley O’Callaghan engineers.