Source: Lennar Corp., Miami
Construction technologies company ICON and homebuilder Lennar will build the largest neighborhood of 3D-printed homes to date using ICON’s innovative robotics, software and advanced materials. Breaking ground next year, the 100-home community will be codesigned by the acclaimed architecture firm Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).
The announcement deepens a relationship that began with Lennar’s investment in Austin-based ICON’s recent $207 million financing round and offers a promising path toward delivering affordable, technology-driven homes that meet rising demand. “Labor and material shortages are two of the biggest factors pushing the dream of home ownership out of reach for many American families,” says Eric Feder, president of LENx, the investment unit of Lennar. “Lennar has always expanded the boundaries of technological innovation to keep quality homes affordable and 3D printing is an immensely encouraging approach.”
“ICON exists as a response to the global housing crisis and to put our technology in service to the world,” adds ICON cofounder and CEO Jason Ballard. “Construction-scale 3D printing not only delivers higher-quality homes faster and more affordably, but fleets of printers can change the way that entire communities are built for the better.” As the country currently faces a deficit of 5 million homes, he notes, ICON’s Vulcan construction system can quickly increase supply without compromising building standards.
“By partnering with ICON and Lennar, we are able to see [additive manufacturing] roll out to the widest possible audience,” says Martin Voelkle, partner, BIG. “The 3D-printed architecture and the photovoltaic roofs are innovations that are significant steps towards reducing waste in the construction process, as well as towards making our homes more resilient, sustainable, and energy self-sufficient.”
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