Hans Vermeulen

Aectual CEO Hans Vermeulen is driven to disrupt the global architecture, engineering & construction (AEC) industry with architecture on-demand platform Aectual.

He is thought leader in the field of digital architecture, with 15 years of experience in scaling cutting-edge architecture firm DUS prior to founding digital construction firm Aectual: The global go-to platform for customizable architectural products.

With its proprietary software tools and XL robotic 3D printers Aectual enables designers and builders to create tailor-made architecture on a mass scale in a sustainable way using bio-based and recycled materials. Current users & partners include: Nike, Schiphol Airport, BMW, ABB, Henkel.

Story Summary:

As architectural graduates, Hans Vermeulen, Hedwig Heinsman and Martine de Wit started their practice with an idea to bring architecture to the masses by digitizing the processes between developers and inhabitants. To further this goal, they built their own large 3D printer. Understanding that buildings consist of products, they decided to digitally print products and refine a designer-to-maker digital process under a separate business entity called Aectual.

Today, Aectual is offering a growing number of high-resolution digitally printed architectural products from floor surfaces to wall panels, which can be customized for individual projects. Learn more about their experience transitioning into product and process design, identifying valuable marketplaces for growth, new opportunities for innovative and sustainable materials, and growing their businesses through lessons of industry, perseverance and partnership in this interview with the architect-founders.