Square, an urban oasis of freshness

The "Square" project is an innovative, modular urban cooling island designed to combat intensifying summer heatwaves. Born from a partnership between Spie batignolles (EmPrinte) and the Serge Ferrari Group, this turnkey solution combines a high-performance, UV-filtering technical textile membrane with a custom concrete base to lower perceived urban temperatures by 5 to 10 degrees under its shade.

Using XtreeE’s 3D concrete printing technology is highly advantageous here because it completely eliminates the need for disruptive, heavy construction. Instead of pouring traditional deep foundations, the 3D-printed elements act as a self-supporting ballast. This allows cities to deploy these micro-cooling zones quickly on existing pavement without heavy machinery or permanent ground damage.

Furthermore, XtreeE's technology enables unprecedented design freedom and material optimization. Designer Maxence Boisseau (At Once Studio) was able to seamlessly merge form and function, printing a single, hollow concrete structure that simultaneously serves as the structural anchor, ergonomic public seating, and autonomous planters for urban vegetation. It uses concrete only exactly where needed, reducing carbon impact while maximizing utility.