6 Amazing Benefits of 3D Printing in Architecture

The invention of 3D printing was one of the most significant inventions of the 21st Century, and it continues to be utilized in numerous new ways on a regular basis. Now, 3D printing is revolutionizing the way we think about architecture. 

Don’t just take our word for it! According to the World Economic Forum, Dubai is serious about the implementation of 3D Printing in architecture. By 2025, the city plans for 25% of all new buildings to be made using 3D printing technology. 

Not only does 3D printing in architecture save time and reduce labor costs, but it has the potential to do much, much more. In the article below, we will explore six incredible ways that 3D printing is reshaping architecture.

6 Ways 3D Printing is Being Used in Architecture

To build more detailed models. 

A crucial step in architecture is building a detailed model depicting exactly how the building will look. This process is essential, as it helps give the contractors, architects and any other participating parties a good idea of whether or not there need to be any changes before they start building. 

With a 3D printer, this process becomes much easier. Models can be printed in a matter of minutes, meaning different variants can be tested to identify which one will be the best fit.

To reduce costs.

 3D printing houses is a cost-effective alternative to traditional construction methods, as it involves less labor and takes less time. 
Fewer workers are required to oversee the process, resulting in a potential cost saving of 20-40%, and any additional labor for the finishing touches may still result in overall savings.

It’s better for the environment.

With 3D printers being able to calculate the exact materials needed for a project, there is a significant reduction in construction waste. According to an article by Word Bank, 3D printing in architecture has been known to reduce building waste by tenfold, as well as reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 70%. 

 It can take as little as 24 hours.

Another amazing draw of 3D printing houses is the efficiency of the process. ‘Giant’ 3D printers, like the Vulcan II, are capable of building a home in as little as 24 hours using a special kind of concrete that dries very quickly. 

It has the potential to solve the world’s housing crisis.

Perhaps the most important benefit of using 3D printing in architecture is its potential to solve one of the biggest humanitarian crises in history. 

With the reduced labor costs, efficiency and versatility, 3D printed houses could be the answer to a problem as old as time. Many countries are already testing this potential solution, with South Africa being one of them. The country announced a 10-year plan in 2022 to begin 3D printing ‘smart, green’ houses to help home its estimated 200 000 homeless citizens.

To lessen any risk of error.

Because quality 3D printers are known for their accuracy and precision, the risk of an error is significantly reduced. As long as the blueprints for the structure are made and entered correctly, the building will be made exactly as planned, without the possibility of human error.

Once human workers are employed for the final touches, the significance of the error is also greatly lessened. A botched paint job is much easier to rectify than a structure that is not sound. 

The Future of 3D Printing in Architecture

As 3D printing technology develops and evolves, we are sure to see more ways that it shapes architecture. 

Currently, we are seeing a big trend in 3D printed houses worldwide, as a solution to the homelessness crisis as well as a cheaper, more sustainable alternative to traditional building methods. 

As 3D printed houses become more and more popular, we will be sure to see some incredible structures being printed, from homes to office buildings. And not only can 3D printers be used to print homes, but if you’d like to go the extra mile, you can print furniture and home decor as well! 

Final Thoughts

The implementation of 3D printing as a method of both designing and building homes is becoming more and more viable, especially with the benefits that we stated above.

3D printed houses could potentially solve one of the biggest human-rights issues that the world has faced, as well as help to reduce waste, deforestation and carbon emissions. 

We can expect to see much more in the world of 3D printed houses as the technology develops.

If you’d like to know a little bit more about 3D printing, check out the rest of our website for product reviews, buyer’s guides and technical advice.