Can 3D printing help address the affordable housing shortage?

 

 

 

 

“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 and 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 he 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.

The Bay Area needs new housing construction, and projects should not necessarily be all about return on investment, but a return on creativity.

 


Daniel is the founding attorney of Bornstein Law, the San Francisco Bay Area's foremost authority on managing landlord-tenant relationships, property management issues, and complex real estate litigation. Having protected the rights of property owners for over 23 years, he is also renowned for his educational workshops, his speaking engagements with numerous organizations, and as an expert witness. Contact his office today.