The world’s first 3D-printed village will be created in Latin America this summer (2019). The community will house more than 400 individuals. The underlying concept: to combat homelessness in rural areas with simple, sustainable technology. Construction company ICON has developed a mobile printer that uses cement to manufacture bungalows in place. Initially, the company aims to create accommodation for 50 families. Ultimately, the company aims to deploy the concept globally. Unlike conventional construction approaches, buildings can be adapted to different climatic and social requirements. The walls of each building can be printed in just 24 hours with nearly zero waste. It is also easy to at a different tint to the concrete to create houses with different colors. This technology will deliver cost benefits and advance innovation in manufacturing.

Written by Tobias Beau