By Evan Garcia
If you thought 3D printers were just for small objects, think again. In the Texan desert, a giant 3D printer the size of a crane is revolutionizing the construction industry by building a hotel - layer by layer.
El Cosmico, a hotel and campground in Marfa, Texas, is undergoing a massive expansion with 43 new hotel units and 18 residential homes being built using 3D printing technology. This groundbreaking project is a collaboration between El Cosmico owner Liz Lambert, 3D printing company ICON, and architects Bjarke Ingels Group.
The use of 3D printing technology allows for unparalleled creativity in design. Lambert mentioned that traditional construction methods often limit the architectural features that can be included in a building due to cost constraints. With 3D printing, elaborate designs like curves, domes, and parabolas can be easily achieved.
The construction process involves using a special cement-based material called Lavacrete, which is fed into ICON's Vulcan 3D printer to create the walls of the units. The printer, standing at 15.5 feet and weighing 4.75 tons, is controlled by a print technician who monitors its progress as it moves through the work site on a gantry.
ICON CEO Jason Ballard highlighted the importance of adjusting the material blend based on weather conditions to ensure optimal printing results. This innovative approach to construction has the potential to disrupt the traditional labor market, as skilled workers may be displaced by automated 3D printing processes.
While the impact on local jobs is a concern, the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of 3D printing technology cannot be ignored. The completion of El Cosmico's expansion by 2026 marks a significant milestone in the construction industry, with hotel units expected to be priced between $200 and $450 per night.
As we witness the rise of 3D-printed construction projects like El Cosmico, it's essential to consider the implications for the future of the industry. Embracing this innovative technology could lead to greater efficiency, lower costs, and groundbreaking designs that were once thought impossible.