Sustainable Decadence v2.0 (2026)

Sustainable Decadence v2.0 (2026)

Ross Stevens

Ross Stevens’ passion for reuse, 3D printing, and hot baths converge in Sustainable Decadence 2.0—a project that balances indulgence with environmental responsibility.

As an experienced industrial designer, Stevens has long been interested in finding new uses for discarded industrial waste. This interest first took shape in the original Sustainable Decadence project in 2011. One of the enduring challenges, however, has been how to transform a collection of eclectic, found elements into a coherent and resolved design. The need to mediate between these disparate parts ultimately led to the development of a large-scale 3D printer capable of producing architectural prints—allowing missing components to be created precisely and seamlessly.

At the heart of the project is a simple belief: in the midst of life’s pressures, small moments of pleasure deserve to be prioritised. These moments may appear decadent, but they contribute meaningfully to wellbeing. Sustainable Decadence 2.0 explores how such pleasure can be enhanced without placing excessive demands on the environment. The project incorporates an old stainless-steel industrial jam cooking vat, ventilation pipe, incorrectly measured double-glazing window, and a leftover piece of balustrade glass. Large-scale 3D printing is used to connect these elements, transforming them into a cohesive and thoughtfully designed bathing experience. A defining feature is the large 3D-printed pivoting roof, which provides both protection and insulation when the pool is not in use, and offers indoor–outdoor flexibility during bathing. The extended tube pivot point disperses stress across the 3D printed structure, allowing the roof to open fully in fine weather. When conditions are less favourable, the roof can be partially closed, enabling users to enjoy the experience of rain from a sheltered position. For greater privacy, the roof can be fully enclosed, altering the acoustics so that water ripples are amplified, while the double-glazed skylight prevents any sense of claustrophobia.