From 25–29 August 2025, Tallinn University of Applied Sciences hosted Estonia’s first student competition in 3D concrete printing, bringing together students from four universities: TalTech, the Estonian University of Life Sciences, the Estonian Academy of Arts, and Tallinn University of Applied Sciences. The goal of the competition was to foster interest in innovative construction technologies and to provide students with hands-on experience in developing future-oriented solutions.
Participants were tasked with designing an element of urban furniture that would be both functional and innovative, using the possibilities of 3D concrete printing. According to the jury, the standout project was “BENK” by the Estonian Academy of Arts team (Kaur Laasi, Renette-Ly Greim, Heli Salmela), which won the main prize. The winning design is a modular system consisting of several urban space elements that can be placed in various environments. “BENK” will be installed in public space and showcased at the XX Design Night Festival. The winning team received gift cards worth €1200, sponsored by Mapri Ehitus OÜ.
Aivars Alt, lecturer at Tallinn University of Applied Sciences and member of the jury, noted that the teams from different universities were in close competition: “It is encouraging to see that the winning project is practical, and even the cost estimation carried out during the competition shows market potential. The positive feedback from participants gives us confidence to repeat the format next year.”
According to the organizers, 3D concrete printing is still an emerging field, but its application has significant potential in shaping future cities and improving construction efficiency. One of the most valuable aspects of the competition was the opportunity for students to experience how an idea can evolve from a concept into a tangible concrete prototype.
The event was organized with the support of Tallinn University of Applied Sciences’ projects EXEP3D and Engineering Academy, and sponsored by several companies, including Mapri Ehitus, Kiili Betoon, Savekate, Estonian Concrete Association, and Bildgren.
Activities were carried out within the framework of the European Union measure “Development of the IT Academy and Engineering Academy in Higher Education” and co-funded by the European Union. More information is available on the HARNO website.