Surfaces as infrastructure – Design and additive manufacturing in Industry 5.0

The paper investigates the role of modular surfaces designed through additive manufacturing as systems capable of integrating technological innovation, modularity and perceptual qualities of space. The research adopts a ‘design research’ approach based on the integration of parametric modelling and prototyping through 3D printing, aimed at the development of surface modules characterised by variable seriality. Through the controlled manipulation of geometric parameters, morphological co-figurations were generated that can produce different visual and spatial effects. The results show that combining digital design and additive manufacturing enables the development of flexible, reconfigurable surface systems with potential applications in interior design and architecture. The paper also highlights the implications of such design strategies on sustainable innovation models and the 2030 Agenda goals.