In the heart of Texas, homes are popping up like mushrooms, and not at the hands of humans and traditional tools, but driven by the precision and innovation of robots and 3D printers. Near Austin, a one-of-a-kind community is taking shape, promising to redefine not only the concept of “living” but also of building.
A new era is born, layer upon layer
In the world of construction, the word “revolution” is used often. But what happens when this revolution is driven not by human hands, but by machines? ICON, a company at the forefront of large-scale 3D printing, working with home builders lennar and the visionary design of the Bjarke Ingels Group / BIG, is giving a tangible answer to this question.
3D printed houses built by robots: from idea to reality
Just a year ago, the idea of a community of 3D printed homes seemed like a distant dream. But with ICON's successful demonstration of its Vulcan construction technologies, the dream is quickly becoming reality.
After successfully completing four print homes in 2021 and its “House Zero” earlier this year, ICON is now in the process of building an entire community of 100 homes in Georgetown, Texas.
It's not just a question of technology. These homes represent a fusion of modern design and functionality. With an aesthetic that evokes a contemporary Texas ranch, each home is a masterpiece of energy efficiency and resistance to the elements, thanks in part to the additive construction method.
A team of robots at work
100 houses printed in 3D and erected in a relatively short time is no small feat. The feat was carried out by an entire team of Vulcan robots that not only speed up the process, but also reduce material waste and offer architects unprecedented design freedom.
Stuart Miller, Executive Chairman of lennar, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “We are delighted to partner with ICON and BIG in building a one-of-a-kind 3D printed home community that combines innovative designs with sustainable features at an affordable price.”
Could this be the future of living?
Each of the 3D printed homes in the community will be powered by the sun with solar panels on the roof and will have respectable technological equipment. Smart doorbells, locks and thermostats, but above all the appeal of a project created to focus on a larger vision.
As he pointed out Jason Ballard, co-founder and CEO of ICON: “We believe that in the future robots and drones they will build entire neighborhoods, cities and towns. And we will look back on this community as the beginning of it all.”
And further? In a century will houses be 3D printed at the speed with which we order a menu at Take Away today? Obviously I'm not able to say it: it is important, however, that all housing solutions that look to the future are sustainable and accessible to all.
And maybe this is the right approach.
