Danish studio BIG has collaborated with 3D-construction firm ICON to transform campground hotel El Cosmico into a luxe, Martian-like desertscape of moon-based structures; a holiday mirage born of global architecture’s most novel technologies.

Located in Marfa, Texas and lead by hotelier Liz Lambert, the project is set to relocate to a 62 acre plot in the west Texas town to allow for new architectural approaches informed by both the desert landscape and BIG X ICON’s work with NASA – a recently-awarded contract to develop the Olympus construction system. This includes creation of pads, habitats, capsules and roads on the lunar surface and Mars, using extrusion-based additive construction technology (3D printing) and local materials like lunar regolith.

Expected to break ground in 2024 as a first exploration of such emerging vernacular, El Cosmico’s design reveals 3D-printed domes, vaults and parabolic forms of organic aesthetic. Beyond new guest accommodation, the structures will include a pool, spa and shared communal facilities that centre an artistic experience.

However new age the advancements in construction techniques though, the 3D printing still incorporates some of the oldest principles of raw earth-based building. Colour-matched to its surrounds, the design ensures an innately human feel despite being an entirely machine-built.

There’ll also be a series of homes made out of clusters of tube-like shapes grouped together to create a unique series of rooms. This circular schema will also be applied to the pool, set to be surrounded by a series of curved 3D-printed cabanas.

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Cute sticky markers, an interpretation of Arne Jacobsen’s chair and whimsical time-stacked photos are just some of the things that inspired the top VISI picks of the week series – week 89.

1. Matt Molloy Photography

“I love the ethereal beauty of these time-stacked photos by Canadian photographer Matt Molloy, which look more like Monet paintings than photographs,” says special projects manager Cecilia du Plessis.

Image credit: flickr.com

2. BIG’s Reinterpretation Of Arne Jacobsen’s Series 7 Chair

“Such a smart reference to how the original chair can be stacked. I really like the repetition in the design,” says editor-in-chief Sumien Brink.

Image credit: Fritz Hansen via designboom.com

3. Veuve Cliquot Ice Letter

“Now this is functional design,” says editor-at-large Malibongwe Tyilo, “a waterproof envelope that transforms into an ice bucket? Genius.”

Image credit: veuve-cliquot.com

4. Tango Stool By Maffam Freeform

“This chair exudes minimalism. It is designed in such a way that it can manage weight evenly, despite its delicate appearance,” explains deputy editor Annemarie Meintjes.

Image credit: yankodesign.com

5. Duncan Shotton’s Sticky Page Markers

“Whether you’re bookmarking your favourite recipe or keeping your spot in the book you’re reading, these cool markers are not only functional, they’re really fun too!” says online editor Lindi Brownell Meiring.

Image credit: dshott.co.uk

Browse more like VISI picks of the week series – week 89 on picks of the week 212.

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