Lucas ter Hall: Bespoke Ceramics in Architecture

Lucas ter Hall is an architect and co-founder of Studio RAP, an award-winning architectural firm based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. He graduated with distinction from TU Delft in 2014, specializing in Robotics in Architecture. Together with co-founder Wessel van Beerendonk, he focuses on uniting computational design with robotic fabrication to create bespoke ceramic architecture. Passionate about the intersection of technology and craftsmanship, Lucas frequently shares his expertise globally, lecturing at institutions and events such as ETH Zurich, UPenn, ACADIA, and KLAF, as well as serving as a juror for AIA New York. At their studio, Lucas and Wessel lead a team that designs and produces intricate, 3D-printed ceramic facades entirely in-house. Through projects like New Delft Blue and The Ceramic House, frequently featured in publications like Dezeen and Wallpaper*, Studio RAP explores how technology can reintroduce expressive ornament into the built environment.

In this lecture, architect Lucas ter Hall shares Studio RAP's journey, from its founding ambitions to its current work with advanced digital craftsmanship. The presentation opens with the studio's core vision: bridging the gap between design, engineering, and robotic fabrication under one roof. The lecture showcases key achievements to date, highlighting milestone projects that demonstrate the studio's approach to architectural ceramics. By combining algorithmic design with custom robotic clay printing, Studio RAP has successfully reintroduced bespoke ornament and tactile details into contemporary facades. Finally, the session offers an exclusive look ahead at upcoming work. Lucas will share the studio’s next generation of future projects, illustrating how Studio RAP continues to develop its methodology and explore new possibilities for bespoke ceramic architecture.