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A Unique Church in Neratovice Undergoes Trial Printing

An exceptional building of the Church of the Holy Trinity is taking shape in Neratovice, combining modern architecture with both traditional and cutting-edge construction technologies. Its construction is expected to incorporate 3D concrete printing, at least for the church tower. Technological tests are currently underway and will determine the extent to which this method will be used in the final structure.

In cooperation with the investor – the Foundation of the Neratovice Community Centre – key properties of the printed elements are being tested, particularly their strength, durability, lifespan, acoustics, and colour consistency. Based on the results of these tests, a decision will be made as to whether 3D printing will also be used for other parts of the building.

“Each test moves us one step further and helps us find the answer to how this technology can be meaningfully integrated into the construction process. The results will determine the form in which 3D printing will become part of the final realization. Even now, however, it is clear that an architecturally unique project is emerging,” the investor states on its Facebook account.

The project has long attracted the attention of both professionals and the general public. If a larger portion of the church is ultimately built using 3D concrete printing, it would become one of the first — if not the very first — sacral buildings of this kind in the world.

HSF System Expands Its Know-How in 3D Concrete Printing

The contractor of the project is HSF System, for whom the use of 3D printing represents valuable experience and an opportunity to further develop expertise in innovative construction methods. The project therefore contributes to testing new approaches and their gradual implementation in practice.

“As part of the technological testing, we needed to verify that the designs and calculations would work in real-life execution. We also had to confirm that we would be physically capable of providing the necessary technical and structural support for 3D printing, such as formwork, scaffolding, braces, and similar elements. The tests focus not only on the strength and stability of the structure with its specific vaulted curvature, but also on the possibilities of precisely executing architectural details such as cornices, reveals, and other design features. The process also includes calibrating and adjusting the printing equipment so that the final appearance matches the architectural design while meeting all technical requirements for quality and durability. The results of these tests will subsequently help us determine the extent to which 3D printing can be used in other parts of the building,” says Miroslav Krop, Director of the Ostrava Division of HSF System.

A Multifunctional Community Centre for the People of Neratovice and the Surrounding Region

The church is not exceptional only because of the technology being used. Alongside it, a community centre is also being developed to serve the wider public. The space will be intended not only for spiritual activities, but also for meetings between generations, cultural events, concerts, workshops, and community gatherings.

The project is partially financed through a public fundraising campaign open to both individuals and companies. The ambition is to create not only an architecturally distinctive building, but above all a vibrant place that will serve the residents of the town and the wider region for many years to come.

Watch the report by Prima TV, filmed during construction in Neratovice and at the premises of Coral in Žďár nad Sázavou.