In a groundbreaking venture, El Cosmico, a unique hotel and campground located on the outskirts of Marfa, Texas, is expanding its facilities with the construction of the world’s first 3D-printed hotel. Utilizing advanced technology, the project will feature 43 new hotel units and 18 residential homes spread across 40 acres of desert landscape.
Owner Liz Lambert, along with Austin-based 3D printing company ICON and the Bjarke Ingels Group of architects, emphasizes that this innovative construction method allows for unparalleled design creativity. “Most hotels are confined to four walls, often repeating the same unit,” Lambert remarked. “Now, we can build with minimal constraints and explore fluid designs like curves and domes, resulting in a truly unique structure.”
The first two units under construction include a three-bedroom residence and a single-room hotel unit, characterized by their 12-foot-high, curvy beige walls. This monumental task is being executed by ICON’s Vulcan, a massive 46.5-foot-wide 3D printer that stands 15.5 feet tall and weighs 4.75 tons. A print technician oversees the process as the printer’s robotic arm and nozzle maneuver throughout the site.
The material used for printing, called Lavacrete, is a specialized cement-based mixture designed for strength and affordability. ICON’s CEO Jason Ballard noted that the formulation is adjusted based on varying weather conditions, allowing for optimal performance during the printing process. “The magic happens in the admixtures,” he explained, highlighting how factors like humidity and temperature can influence the material’s properties and appearance.
Additionally, ICON is engaged in developing a 3D-printed neighborhood of homes near Austin, further showcasing the potential of this technology in residential construction. However, experts like Milad Bazli, a lecturer in science and technology, caution that such advancements may impact the job market, particularly in remote areas where skilled labor is vital. “We must consider the social and economic implications of shifting to 3D printing,” Bazli stated.
The expansion of El Cosmico is slated for completion by 2026, with hotel unit rates expected to range from $200 to $450 per night, offering guests a pioneering experience in hospitality.
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