The year 2023 has witnessed groundbreaking advancements in 3D-printed architecture, showcasing a blend of innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
Here are some notable examples:
Bio-plastic Micro-Home, The Netherlands (DUS Architects):
This 8-square-metre micro cabin, constructed using sustainable bio-plastic, epitomizes compact living. It utilizes deposition modeling, a type of additive manufacturing, for creating geometric walls, featuring a minimalistic sleeping area and an externally located 3D-printed bath.
Tecla, Italy (Mario Cucinella Architects and WASP):
A low-carbon housing prototype, Tecla comprises two connected domes covering 60-square-metres. It integrates locally sourced clay with 3D printing, offering a spacious interior illuminated by skylights. Remarkably, the structure is completed in 200 hours using only six kilowatts of power.
Project Milestone, The Netherlands (Eindhoven University):
Europe’s first lived-in 3D-printed home, designed by Houben &
Van Mierlo, features a unique boulder shape. The structure aims to broaden the scope of 3D-printed housing, offering a fully habitable setup with modern amenities.
Two-Storey Home, Belgium (Kamp C):
Claimed as the first house 3D-printed in one piece, this two-storey structure in Belgium exemplifies the potential of 3D printing in creating large, functional homes. The house includes advanced features like underfloor heating and solar panels.
Gaia, Italy (WASP):
This 30-square-metre house is an example of using local materials in 3D printing, incorporating soil, straw, and rice husks. Such projects highlight the sustainability aspect of 3D printing in architecture.
These examples of 3D-printed architecture not only demonstrate the technology’s capability in creating diverse and sustainable structures but also its potential in reducing construction costs and environmental impact. From compact living solutions to large, habitable homes, 3D printing is redefining the architectural landscape, offering a glimpse into a future where buildings are constructed more efficiently, sustainably, and creatively. As architects and builders, embracing 3D-printed designs means being at the forefront of a construction revolution, shaping a sustainable and innovative built environment.
