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The Manufacturers of 3D Printed Houses

Published on October 20, 2022 by Jamie D.
manufacturers 3d printed house

3D printing in construction has come more into focus than ever before. According to a report from Exactitude Consulting, the market is expected to grow from $503M in 2020 to about $6.5B in 2029. And as readers may know, there are numerous projects already out there, including homes which are being lived in. As such, we decided to shine a spotlight on the many manufacturers of construction 3D printers who are driving this booming sector. Currently, there are a number of different types of construction 3D printers, from polar machines to gantry-mounted printers to mobile robots. Today, they are capable of extruding concrete that enable the construction of various structures of varying degrees of complexity, from houses to bridges and offices. In the following alphabetical listing, we take a look at the main manufacturers of 3D printed houses on the market!

Apis Cor

Apis Cor is an American company from Melbourne that developed a 3D printer capable of building a house in just 24 hours, in extreme weather. As for current technology, Apis Cor has a printer nicknamed ‘Frank’. This is an easy to handle mobile printer capable of creating buildings up to 3 floors. He does not require any additional assembly; he arrives at the site ready to work. ‘Frank’ has a younger ‘brother’ printer named Gary: he is in charge of ensuring a high quality of 3D printing material. But they also have a ‘sister’, ‘Mary’, who is in charge of 3D printing material supply. ‘Mary’ doesn’t need bags of material, getting dirty mixing by hand, rain or snow, ‘Mary’ is always ready to work – just add water, connect her to ‘Frank’ and ‘Gary’ for teamwork and build!

'Fank' is a manufacturer 3D printed houses

‘Frank’ the printer. (Photo credit: Apis Cor).

BatiPrint

BatiPrint is a project that came from a team of researchers from the University of Nantes, where the startup is still based. One of the most important manufacturers of 3D printed houses, it aims to accelerate 4.0 construction by building and renovating using robotics and additive manufacturing. For its solutions, it partnered with LS2N, a laboratory specialised in the development of robotics, to create a 4-meter-long robot that deposits 3 layers of materials in succession: two layers of expanding foam and one third of concrete. This industrial robot is polyarticulated and mobile, allowing it to operate directly on site. It is capable of building 7-meter walls. Additionally, the company turns to recycled or biosourced materials to help increase sustainability in construction. For their projects, we can point notably to the creation of the first social housing in Nantes.

3d printed house

Photo credit: BatiPrint

Black Buffalo 3D

Black Buffalo 3D is a US based manufacturer of 3D printers for construction. They use durable, hard-wearing cement-based ink with which they claim to make constructions stronger than a block wall. Their motivation is to solve the growing housing crisis and reduce the carbon footprint of construction, using technology that can print constructions up to 4 stories high in a matter of weeks and create cost savings of around 50%. Their NeXON™ gantry printer and range of raw materials promise to revolutionize construction for the benefit of the consumer.

Black Buffalo 3D manufactures 3D printed houses

Photo credit: Black Buffalo 3D

COBOD

The Danish-based manufacturer of 3D printed houses, COBOD began its activities in 2017 with the construction of the first 3D printed building in Copenhagen. They are now present on every populated continent. The company’s first 3D printer was called BOD (Building On Demand) and with it they started working all over Europe, which allowed them to learn and optimize their machine. In this way they later developed the second generation of the 3D printer, the BOD2.  They have recently released the COBOD configurator which offers a digital version of the BOD2 printer, with adjustable printheads and size. There is even a simulation of their buildings under construction. Recent projects from the company include the first 3D printed office extension in Austria and the construction of the first two-story home in the US.

COBOD printers are used to additively manufacture houses

Photo credit: COBOD

Constructions 3D

Constructions 3D is a French project by the company Machines-3D in collaboration with the Belgian architect Gaël Collaro, the leaders in 3D printing with mortar. The purpose of this project is to build customizable houses from recyclable materials directly in the locality where you want to create the construction, so they have developed their own 3D printers of houses. They currently have 3 printers. The Maxiprinter is the turnkey solution: a concrete printer which solves several problems faced by the construction industry. The transport of the container, as well as the robustness of the machine derived from its hydraulic system. They also have the Miniprinter Pro with a printing volume of 1.2 x 1.2 x 1.2 m which has an automated pumping system with 3 available pump options. And finally the Miniprinter Edu: designed to respond to the need of education and research sectors looking to develop the construction skills of their students and teams in relation to 3D digital tools.  The video shows one of their projects in Bruay-sur-Escaut, at the Citadelle des Savoir-Faire.

Contour Crafting

To build the average home in the U.S., it takes between six and nine months. Now imagine what it would be like if a personalized house could be built in just one day. Contour Crafting has addressed this issue. Thanks to advanced robotics, they able to build custom homes in just a few hours. Whether for low-income people or to rebuild after disasters – and for just one-fifth of the traditional cost of building a house! As for the material used for the 3D printer by Contour Crafting, this uses a fast-setting, concrete-like material.

Cybe Construction

CyBe Construction is a Dutch company that had previously launched 2 3D concrete printers, Cybe RC 3Dp and Cybe R 3Dp. It has now launched a third Cybe G, a 3D printer of a four column, three beam configuration capable of printing anywhere within the set 3D zone. This printer is perfect for construction companies interested in building affordable housing. The gantry prints with a print head and nozzle controlled by ABB. But not only that, they have also developed a patented material, based on a concrete mix. Both machines with 6 axes could print at a speed of 200 mm/second, enabling concrete structures to be manufactured quickly. Cybe’s technology is considered to be one of the most innovative and reliable ways to build a concrete unit.

Cybe constructions manufactures 3D printed houses

Left, Cybe G; right, Cybe 3C. (Photo credits: Cybe Construction)

ICON

ICON was formed in 2015. The Austin, Texas-based company is one of the largest construction providers using 3D printing, robotic solutions and software. Their numerous projects have included working together with homebuilder Lennar to build a community of 100 3D printed homes, and a collaboration with NASA to simulate conditions on Mars. Most recently, they have renewed a partnership with the US military, this time for a major project to build military barracks.  This diversified portfolio shows why ICON dominates the US market with their building solutions, as well as playing a key role in other countries.

manufacturers 3d printed house

Photo credit: ICON

Mighty Buildings

The next on our list of manufacturers of 3D printed houses is Oakland, California-based Mighty Buildings. This company is transforming the industry using robotics and materials innovation. They pay attention to two issues that are very present today: housing availability and the climate crisis. 80% of the production of their operations are automated, 60% of the materials are recycled and there is 99% less expense per house built with 3D printing. For the last 5 years they have been working towards achieving zero waste in the production process, designing system kits and a concrete formula that would reduce time, costs and emissions. Some of the projects already completed are in California a three bedroom, two and a half bath house, community pool, garage. Or another project in the Caribbean with four bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms. Dream homes that can be built thanks to 4.0 technology.

Mighty Buildings: a key 3D printed housing provider.

Photo credit: Mighty Buildings

MudBots

American company MudBots is known for their ability to build homes from small 15′ x 15′ models to large 100′ x 100′ models using 3D printers. For the first time, MudBots introduced its line of 3D printers at the World of Concrete 2019 in Las Vegas, and since then, it has carried out all the projects in the field of house construction through 3D concrete printing around the world. This series includes Model E15-15H10, Model E25-25H10, Model E35-35H10, Model E50-50H10, Model E75-75H10 and Model E100-50H10 printers, each of which has different features and different construction times.

SQ4D

The American company SQ4D specializes in the design and construction of installations created using 3D printing. Their ARCS line of construction 3D printers consists of a robot arm located in a gantry that surrounds the printing area, creating the structure by means of a concrete extrusion process. Notably, they state that they hope to offer the world a more safe, affordable and sustainable successor to traditional building methods. And it has certainly been successful up to now. In fact, in February 2021, SQ4D were the first to put a 3D printed house on the market. This happened in Long Island, NY.

Caption: SQ4D were the first manufacturers to put a 3D printed home on the market. (photo credit: SQ4D).

WASP

Since 2012, the Italian company WASP (World’s Advanced Saving Project) has been one of the key manufacturers of 3D printed houses. They work based on the principles of the circular economy and sustainability. In 2021, they entered the market using their own multi-printer Crane WASP, producing houses in a very short time using 3D printers. Their 3D printer Crane WASP is the first modular as well as multi-stage 3D printer ever to appear on the market. It can be built in any shape in just a few days and has a printing area of 50 square meters per printer unit. This made it possible, for example, to carry out the TECLA project together with Mario Cucinella Architects, which represents a global habitat for sustainable living.

 

XtreeE

XTreeE is a French manufacturer of 3D printed houses, created in 2015, which creates complex concrete structures. It works with ABB branded robots and develops its own software in-house. In addition, it seeks to create more mobile machines to overcome certain manufacturing constraints. The startup explains that its machine is based on a technology close to that of molten material deposition. One of its most well-known projects is the delivery in Reims of the five first fully-certified 3D printed houses in France. Thanks to XtreeE’s 3D printing technologies, it was possible to design hollow walls to be able to integrate pipes and insulating material.

Photo credit: XTreeE

What do you think of these 3D printed house manufacturers? Let us know in a comment below or on our Facebook and Twitter pages! Sign up for our free weekly Newsletter, all the latest news in 3D printing straight to your inbox!

The 55 comments

Join the discussion and tell us your opinion.

  1. Dale Macdonald says:

    I think there is a need for someone committed to making 3d storm shelters in the mid west. It would have to be affordable and economical as well..If there is any one thinking the same thing I would love to here from you…

  2. lisa says:

    Useful and great information!

  3. Robin baker says:

    I’d like to have homes printed. I’m in Arizona and I’m wondering about the R factor for insulation. Can you put me in touch with a company that works in the USA ? Robin B.

  4. marianna b sims says:

    ARE THERE ANY COMPAMYS IN THE US. IF SO WHERE ARE THEY LOCATED. HOW MUCH WOULD A 1500 SQ FT COST/ THANK YOU

  5. Does anyone do room additions?

  6. Steven D Brown says:

    When are 3D printer companies coming to Chicago Ill could help the homeless and low income people with a place to stay see u soon Steven.

  7. Matt says:

    The real challenge here would appear to be in finding sustainable, printable materials. We should not be printing with concrete, where possible. Credit to Wasp for looking to find a new material palette.

  8. KCT says:

    Excellent research in looking through your work I discovered that there is such a thing called 4d printing. I did not know the vast growing market of the products and services 3d printing provides. Thanks for the research.

  9. Kim Earp says:

    Really great idea for low income housing are you doing it in the states cause I want one

  10. It would appear that none of the 3D Printed buildings are insulated. Even the ones which show “hollows” in the center of the wall structures have zig-zag structures connecting the outer faces and would appear to exhibit significant thermal bridging. Also, solid mass walls will behave poorly in a seismic event without some other support.
    These early pioneers offer very encouraging early visions of what may yet come to reality. Best of success to them all!

  11. JACQUELINE SEJOUR says:

    I am currently seeking land to build on within the next 30-90 days.

    This is totally in my budget. Where do I begin with your company?
    I need 3 beds, office room or loft with 2.5 beds. Home has to have gas for heating and cooking with 2 car garage.
    Please contact me, I am a single mom with two special children. Currently renting at 1500.00 per month.

  12. Eric Kerry says:

    Hey Steven,

    We are working on putting together a pilot program to build prototypes throughout the United States. The homeless problem and affordable housing issue here in America is an awful problem affecting families all over our great nation. We are reaching out to individuals, investors, businesses and philanthropists to help us with launching our program and the building of these prototypes.
    We are seeking land owners who are willing to contribute towards the cause. We have general contractors, pruduct suppliers, from cabinetry and counter tops to plumbing and windows. We have all that is needed except for the land. We are launching this project because getting permits for this type of new construction technology is difficult being the lack of information about the safety. feasibility sustainability and environmental impact. It just isnt out there. So we need to build these prototypes and submit information that will address all concerns regarding specifications, environmental impact snd that the material and construction meets all the industry standards and will pass individual state building codes. Anyone interested in joining our mission please contact me at 561 225 0777 ask for Eric. Or email [email protected]

  13. How are electrical and plumbing added?

  14. Mr. Williams says:

    I am interested in knowing if you have the capability to build these types of homes in the South Bay Area of California

  15. Selina says:

    Hi, I want to purchase a 3D Printer Home in North Carolina some time in Sept 2020. Who do I got through name addresses phone numbers zipcode city state
    Thank youuu

  16. Akshay Mehdiratta says:

    I am from india and I want to purchase this machine and want to learn more about this machine.

  17. Guillaume Thomas says:

    Also live in Chicago and would like to know which companies are active stateside; also do these companies construct multi level buildings somewhat like you see in china?

  18. hello,
    this is vishal from india. i want one of your machine. can you please tell me the price of this machine and can we import it to india.
    please reply me on my email.
    thank you

    1. Hii Vishal,
      I am Vivek Patil from India. I am researching Construction 3d printing for 2-3 years. Are you starting a startup after buying the printer? I would like to join your company.

  19. Marilyn Shorrock says:

    Is there access for people in Massachusetts to acquire a 3D home?

  20. Contact says:

    Fastidious response in return of this difficulty with firm
    arguments and describing everything about that.

  21. Sithembile ngwenya says:

    I like the idea of 3D.PRINTING HOUSE. HOW can I get a3D printed houses in Zimbabwe, Africa?
    I need houses printed for poor people.
    Thank you.

  22. Ron Day says:

    I have seven acres I would like to develope into a small retirement villiage for seniors in our area. I feel this is one way I could help reduce the costs for retired people while providing them with individual homes, privacy and continued self reliance. I am in a community of former ranchers and farmers in Beaver City, Utah. I’d love to talk with any 3D home manufacturers who might have an interest in a show room project for the rest of the country.

  23. Jim Marquez says:

    Which provides the best price per wall?
    Which are global and can function anywhere?
    Concrete is a fine but heavy material and the equipment looks transportable, how about the island of Hawaii?
    Aloha.

  24. EDGAR JIMENEZ says:

    I WOULD LIKE TO PURCHASE A HUSES LIKE THAT FOR MY FAMILY I OWN THE LAND I JUST NEED A HOUSE CANT YOU WRITE ME ON MY WEB SIDE TO TELK THE PRICE FOR ONE 2165 SQUARE FOOD. IN UTAH

  25. Mary LoPiccalo says:

    Is there a company in Illinois that builds these 3-D printer homes? What would a 2 BR, 1 BA, Living Rm, Kitchen cost? Is plumbing, water & electrical included or done by separate contractors? Thank you!

  26. bridget watson says:

    I like WOULD LIKE A 3d home built can you help me .. States are Floridea & Arozonia

  27. Felicia houston says:

    Are there 3d home builders in eastern north Carolina

  28. Gilbert G Gray says:

    Absolutely love this idea especially for low-income retired people

  29. ikhlass says:

    which companies can do 3D printing for buildings in UAE
    WE NEED a presentation regarding the used methodology, capacity and type of projects

  30. Kay says:

    These houses are awesome and such a blessing for people. Can you tell me are they building in Georgia or how to apply for one? Thank you.

  31. Terry Jones says:

    Very interested in all products.

  32. Glenn Seeley says:

    how can someone get in on the ground floor of 3-D homes … this has to be the wave of the future

  33. Janet says:

    Are you in Southern Idaho yet? Do you want to be?

  34. Alie Ackerson says:

    I want one! Who in Az is building these?

  35. Bharati D Shah says:

    I would like to have a 3D constructed home in NJ.

  36. vignati gianfranco says:

    what’s the cost of 3D machinery to build a house ? I am very interested in this type of technology

  37. David MAXION says:

    Can u invest in 3D printing companies, if so how

  38. nick simak says:

    3D Housing in AZ, 85255

  39. Cristy Chacon says:

    Please provide information on how to get in touch with a company where I can order two 3-D printed houses or guest houses..

  40. Sharlyn S Harvey says:

    As with all the other comments this is clearly a necessary advancement. I am very interested in the company’s that incorporate “Earthship” or Arcosanti type facilities. I am interested in pricing a multifamily home. Some things I did not see discussed in this brief article are the long-term health concerns, durability, code challenges, and how the plumbing, electrical, and finishing are accomplished. I would like to see a finished structure and view a more in-depth information.

  41. Sifiso Vezi says:

    I am in South Africa and very much into construction. Where can I buy a 3d printer that can build 6m x 10m homes?

  42. Janet says:

    I am very interested to have a 3D printed house built in Portland, Oregon.

  43. Terry Justice says:

    My name is Terry Justice and I am interested in training and purchasing a 3d Home printer. I am in the process of trying to get with a company that would be willing to train me or my son.

  44. Lisa Smith says:

    Yes i am very interested in one of these house. I am disabled and wheel chair bound. I am tired of bumping into walls with my chair. I really need something durable

  45. John Panico says:

    I am also very interested if there are companies in either Georgia or Florida that are building these homes.

    1. Madeleine P. says:

      Unsure about Georgia, but the first 3D printed building was done a few months ago in Florida. You can find our coverage here: https://www.3dnatives.com/en/printed-farms-completes-the-first-3d-printed-building-in-florida100220216/

  46. Tammy says:

    I am very interested in this new technology. Having these types of homes could help with the current housing crisis. I am interested in this new home technology for myself but I have many more questions about it. Is this new housing technology available in Montana?

  47. cirous mobasser says:

    It is best for all American 3D housing construction companies to get together and form a giant company to build a 3D city as a model for all city construction in future time. The benefits are tremendous. Assuming the giant company will build an efficient and self sufficient city for 750,000 people. The city shall have agricultural land around the city to make the city self sufficient. The future city residents become the owner of the city as a gated community which only city residents shall own the stocks of the profitable city corporation. No one else or outside corporations will be able to buy a house, a building or agricultural land within the city. The city then will have no economic crimes, no homeless people, no gang members, no economic prostitutes and therefore no jails. The city also become most efficient because transportation and congestion (according to my design) will be reduced by 70%. The company will be able to build a city anywhere in the world in future time even in the desert close to ocean because I also have invented the most efficient and least expensive water desalination process. All these saving makes the city to become viable entity which all people in the world would like to live in such a city in future time. For all the above reason, if you form a giant company, to build the first city, your company eventually become the largest company in the world (I am also an economist, economic planner, and a designer/inventor).

  48. Andre says:

    Are you building in Colorado yet? If not, would you like to be? We are very interested and ready to build.

    1. Madeleine P. says:

      Hi, so we have a few comments like this and I just wanted to clarify, 3Dnatives is not a construction company, we are not building houses. 3Dnatives is an international media platform covering 3D printing and its applications. If you would like to build a 3D printed house, I recommend directly contacting one of the companies named in the article. Thank you!

  49. Geary Luft - Alamo General Contractors says:

    I have been in the cement industry most of my life manufacturing brick, block, precast, prestressed, poured in place. I have looked at these examples of 3d homes. But they must have some steel reinforcement of some kind to prevent water expansion and to give it the ability to hold up under stress. Without the rebar the walls could buckle under a load. I have a pice of land if any of these companies want to build a test home on it to put it to the real market test they can. I don’t think the homes will hold up.

  50. Rahul says:

    How much cost and time for construction of 3000sqft house in residential area???

  51. Naomi Cunningham says:

    I would like to be the 1st to have a 3d printed home in Laurens county South Carolina. Is there anyone building 3ds in this area?

  52. Tom Kale says:

    I want to have a 3D home built in SE Tennessee…who can I contact about building it?

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