“We print buildings” is the motto of Apis Cor, a Russian based company that has a unique mobile 3D building printer that is capable of printing an entire house on site. Their engineers, managers, builders, inventors have a lofty goal: to change the construction industry and improve the housing conditions of millions in urban areas, underdeveloped countries, and people affected by disasters.
This visionary company posted a promotional video of the world’s first printed house being constructed in Stupino, just outside of Moscow. They claim the 400-foot structure was built in 24 hours, with the total cost for the project ringing up at just $10,134. Take a look.
The machine spits out layer upon layer of a concrete mixture using a giant printing machine that looks more like a crane, but hasn’t yet eliminated the human factor. The roof, insulation, windows, and other components were all added later by humans.
“I hope that the construction industry once will become as globally widespread as smart apps in social network, and building a house will be as easy as pressing a like button.” ~Nikita Chen jun-tai, Apis Cor founder
In addressing the Bay Area’s housing shortage and homelessness epidemic, we’ve seen a bit of innovation, such as factory-built, multi-unit housing projects, as well as turnkey services for Accessory Dwelling Units and tiny homes, but the advent of technology to print homes opens up a new round of evolution.
New construction isn’t necessarily about return on investment, but a return on creativity.
