3D-printing technology allows for atypical lines and shapes to be built, something impossible with traditional construction methods. Photo: AFP
An infinity pool, a spa, guest quarters with two to four bedrooms, a patio for relaxing dinners.... the features sound familiar enough for a new, traditional hotel, except that the architecture of this project employs 3D-printing technology.
Over in the US state of Texas, this unusual project is set to take shape.
In the windswept Marfa desert, famous Denmark-based architectural firm BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group and tech firm ICON – which together teamed up with NASA to develop designs for 3D-printed lunar structures and Mars habitats – have taken on the task of renovating a small 'glampground' hotel, called El Cosmico, to transform it into an establishment with various spaces and structures that fit perfectly within the natural desert environment.
The ochre-coloured buildings of the new community, with their rounded forms, arches and parabolic shapes, will give the impression that they have sprung directly from the minimalist landscape. And this is one of the reasons why 3D printing was selected for the project.
"The new hotel and houses feature organic curves and domes, a primordial architectural language that can only be achieved by 3D printing. ICON's technology excels at creating soft shapes and curved surfaces, making it possible to bring this design vision to life," the construction tech company explains.
Faster, cheaper and more sustainable
3D printing is not just about realising an aesthetic vision though. Previously, the small hotel spanned 21 acres (8ha). The transformed complex, headed by hotelier Liz Lambert, will consist of a community featuring lodgings called Sunday Homes and will cover over 60 acres (24ha).
Reservations will open this summer, and the first guests will be able to visit as early as next year. This impressively quick renovation time for such an ambitious project is enabled by the 3D-printing technology.
It's a major advantage to the process, something that was highlighted with a project in Nantes, France where startup Batiprint3D succeeded in building a new 1000sq ft (95sq m) house in just 54 hours. Requiring less energy and manpower, this technique also lowers construction costs.
In fact, tech construction firm ICON, which has made 3D printing its specialty, has also built housing for the homeless in Texas.
Additionally, 3D printing offers a construction solution that has a lower impact on the environment. Like the raw earth used in the renovation of the El Cosmico Hotel, more sustainable materials can be used in the printing process.
With only the necessary amount of material used to print the design, less waste is produced compared to a traditional concrete construction.
These many advantages explain why 3D printing in the construction industry has a bright future. According to a report by Grand View Research, the sector's annual growth is estimated at 101.9% between 2023 and 2030. – AFP Relaxnews
