NCCR DFAB Alumni Gathering Tor Alva

The first alumni gathering of the NCCR DFAB took place in Zurich and the Grisons Alps. The occasion was the recent opening of the architecturally and technologically significant Tor Alva.

Alumni walk towards Mulegns to Tor Alva. Photo by Inés Ariza

The event began with a relaxed barbecue at the Robotic Fabrication Lab, where researchers from different phases of the NCCR DFAB, former MAS ETH DFAB participants, and past administrative staff came together to reconnect. On Saturday, the gathering continued with a full-day excursion into the mountains to visit Tor Alva. Under perfect summer skies, the group hiked through the stunning Alpine landscape. After a picnic break, the white cupola of Tor Alva came into view.

We were warmly welcomed by the Nova Origen Fondaziun and gathered in the grand hall of the Posthotel to hear about the valley’s history and learn more about the foundation and its projects. While we sat comfortably inside, the sky outside suddenly opened up, thunder rolled, and rain and hail poured down. Sheltered from the storm, Tor Alva architect and NCCR DFAB Principal Investigator Benjamin Dillenburger shared the story behind the creation of the project. When the storm passed, we climbed the steps to the dome together. To conclude the day, we enjoyed cake and ice cream at the soon-to-open Gelateria Glatsch, hollow-core 3D-printed elements designed by MAS ETH DFAB students had been installed just the day before.

NCCR DFAB Alumni gathered in the cupola of Tor Alva in Mulegns. Photo by Inés Ariza

Founded in 2025, the NCCR DFAB Alumni Association aims to connect former researchers and associated fellows with digital fabrication colleagues around the world.