The world’s largest 3D-printed neighborhood is gearing up for final completion in Georgetown, Texas, just north of the bustling city of Austin. This ambitious project marks a significant milestone in the housing industry, where innovative 3D printing technology is being employed to construct an entire community.

Icon, Lennar, and Bjarke Ingels Group: A Collaborative Effort

This fascinating development is being spearheaded by Icon, a US-based 3D concrete-printing company. They’re joined by Lennar, a reputed homebuilder from Florida, and the globally acclaimed design firm, Bjarke Ingels Group. Together, these partners are pushing the boundaries of traditional construction methods by embracing advanced 3D printing technology.

The key to their success lies in Icon’s state-of-the-art gantry-style Vulcan 3D-printing robot. This remarkable machine can construct structures as large as 3,000 square feet in one continuous operation, eliminating the need for frequent relocations of the printing unit. This efficiency has allowed for rapid progress in the neighborhood’s development.

Advanced Home Features and Market Impact

As of May 2024, 95 out of the planned 100 homes have been successfully completed. These homes, ranging in size from 1,850 to 3,000 square feet and priced between $469,990 and $578,990, boast modern design elements such as metal roofs, solar panels, and vaulted ceilings. The remaining homes are on track to be finished in the coming year.

Designed for energy efficiency and climate resilience, these homes are a testament to cutting-edge building practices. One homeowner reported an impressively low utility bill of just $35 for an entire month, showcasing the sustainability of these new constructions. Moreover, the structures can withstand wind gusts up to 250 miles per hour, offering enhanced protection against severe weather conditions.

Additionally, Icon has recently unveiled its latest innovation, a massive 40-foot-tall 3D printer named Phoenix. This new printer can produce walls up to 27 feet tall, paving the way for the construction of multi-story buildings, which could further revolutionize the housing market. With high demand for single-story homes in the Austin region, this development fits perfectly into the area’s growing needs.

Looking ahead, Icon is committed to exploring new automations to complement their main print system. This forward-thinking approach aims to expand their services within the burgeoning field of robotic concrete homebuilding, potentially transforming the construction landscape on a global scale. The future of homebuilding is here, and it’s 3D-printed.