***UPDATE – See completed Project HERE.
In November 2024, Ireland will witness the unveiling of its first-ever 3D-printed housing project in Dundalk, marking a significant milestone in the country’s housing landscape. Dundalk Democrat.
Three 3-bedroom homes, built using cutting-edge 3D construction technology, will be allocated to local families on County Louth’s housing list. The project is spearheaded by HTL.tech, in collaboration with Louth County Council, Roadstone Ltd, and LMETB. This innovative approach to construction showcases the potential for faster, more affordable, and sustainable housing solutions.
The 3D Printing Revolution in Irish Housing.
HTL.tech, which developed the homes, recently earned the “Standards Innovation Award” from the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) for its pioneering work in 3D Construction Printing (3DCP).
The new housing method falls under the Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) framework, specifically in the Additive Construction (AC) category. This approach allows for rapid, high-quality home production while adhering to international, European, and Irish standards for construction quality and sustainability.
According to HTL.tech, using 3D printing technology has reduced housing delivery times by 30%, which could completely change how Ireland addresses its housing shortage. With the growing demand for affordable housing, 3D printing may offer a more efficient way to deliver quality homes quickly and cost-effectively.
What This Means for Modular and Tiny Home Buyers.
3D homes are new in Ireland, so 3 important questions must be answered?
- Are these houses safe and durable?
- How are they insulated?
- Are they affordable?
- What impact does the 30% less delivery time have on the quality of the houses?
At this time, we cannot tell yet.
But for those interested in modular or tiny homes, the success of this project is a promising development.
- VERSATILITY – The same technology could potentially be applied to modular construction, allowing for quicker build times, lower costs, and improved sustainability.
2. BETTER CUSTOMISATION – 3D printing technology could also make it easier for modular home buyers to customise their homes according to specific needs or preferences.
3. POTENTIAL SAVINGS – If 3D printed houses are indeed cheaper than traditional houses as many sources claim, this would be particularly attractive for tiny home buyers, as the technology should emphasise efficiency and minimal waste.
4. SPEED – Additionally, the shorter construction time could help meet the urgent demand for housing in a much faster timeframe, giving aspiring homeowners more options.
The Future of Housing in Ireland.
As the housing crisis continues to be a pressing issue, this 3D-printed housing project in Dundalk could serve as a blueprint for future developments across Ireland and the UK.
By making use of advanced technology, it’s possible to create homes that are not only affordable but also eco-friendly and sustainable. This innovation could extend beyond traditional homes to modular and tiny homes, providing more flexible housing options for those seeking cost-effective, sustainable living.
Right now, I do not expect 3D houses to be affordable. In fact, I expect them to be equal to or more expensive than traditional houses. However, projects like this hold great promise for addressing Ireland’s housing challenges, offering new, innovative solutions that prioritise efficiency, affordability, and quality.
We will continue to follow these developments very closely.
