3D Printed Construction Reaches New Heights in the US

Housing shortages are a worldwide concern, in light of growing population densities and cost-of-living concerns. However, new technologies could breathe new life into the housing market and solve these modern concerns in an affordable way. The solution? 3D printing in construction. In the latest news, a collaboration between the architecture company HANNAH Design Office, the printing expertise of PERI Ltd. and the construction efforts of civil engineering firm CIVE has led to this: the largest residential 3D printed building project in the US. Measuring 4000 square feet, this offers a tangible, further example of the industry using additive manufacturing for domestic development.

In recent years, multiple single story buildings in the US have been printed using 3D technology. This particular project’s significance lies in its being the first two story 3D building project in the country; in neighboring Canada, nidus3D Inc. has accomplished this feat. Additionally, this latest construction is no otherworldly creation unfit for human habitation; it in fact opens the door to the possible creation of family homes. Instead of a passion project for ambitious designers and 3D-printing hobbyists, rather this could be the future of affordable housing.

Construction of COBOD’s 3D printed home, showing the functional spaces. (photo credits: hannah-office.org)

The CIVE president, Hachem Domloj, explained what the project means to him and to the industry. “Having the opportunity to be the engineers and general contractor for the first multistory 3D printed structure in the U.S. has been an honor. We can see how this technology and our team’s approach is providing the scalability to larger commercial developments. Collectively, we’re changing the way our country builds, and paving the way for more affordable housing, higher structural integrity, and faster building capabilities. The possibilities of 3D printing are endless!”