Start of construction for the world's first 3D-printed hotel complex
In the US state of Texas, a hotel complex with various buildings is to be built using 3D printing. Construction has now begun on this unusual project.
View of the construction site in Texas
(Image: ICON)
In Marfa in the US state of Texas, the world's first 3D-printed hotel and residential complex has recently been built, according to investors. In addition to the hotel building, a bathhouse, restaurant and private residences are also planned for an area of around 60 hectares.
Investor Liz Lambert has teamed up with the manufacturer ICON, which specializes in large-scale 3D printing, and the BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group architects. The new complex is to replace an existing complex with a mixture of hotel and campsite called El Cosmico. A first show home is expected to be completed by the end of the year, according to ICON. The purchase price for the weekend homes with three to four bedrooms is estimated at 2.29 million US dollars. The entire complex is scheduled to go into operation in 2026.
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Unusual designs planned
The building materials for the giant 3D printer that has been installed will include the sand and soil found on site, according to reports. Architecturally, the aim is to set accents with innovative shapes such as domes, arches and vaults. The aim is to use structures that can only be created using 3D printing. The ensemble is intended to blend into the desert environment.
ICON is a construction technology start-up that uses robotics and AI systems to reduce construction costs and increase construction speed. The company also wants to use its technology to create affordable and fast housing where it is urgently needed. In the future, the technology could also play a role in the creation of buildings on other planets or the moon. The company has developed a robot printer called Phoenix for this purpose, which enables multistory construction. With its robotic arm, it can print complete building shells, including the foundations and roof structures. For single-story buildings, the Vulcan construction system is to be used, which is attached to a kind of bridge that moves back and forth over the construction site.
(mki)