Congratulations to Australian 3D printing company, Luyten 3D, which constructed the first 3D-printed two-storey building in the southern hemisphere.

The dwelling has two bedrooms, a kitchen, bathroom, and living area.

It was printed in just 32 hours and used the Platypus X12 printer, the largest mobile AI-powered 3D printer globally. It was printed in a single continuous session by two staff members at the company’s Melbourne headquarters.

The construction method significantly reduces build time and costs, compared to traditional building methods, and Luyten 3D says its high-performance proprietary concrete mix has enhanced sustainability.

Does 3D printing have the potential to address housing affordability and construction efficiency?

The company believes so, reporting that 3D printing significantly reduces build time, enables significant reductions in waste, and cuts costs through not needing structural framework. Rather than laying bricks and building walls, the durable, weather-resistant structure simply awaits trades to install final elements.

Luyten 3D says this printing technology can create structures quickly and efficiently; and has the versatility and potential for a wide range of construction applications, especially in remote or challenging locations.

Given housing shortage and affordability issues, any advancement in the construction industry that’s capable of delivering a broad range of properties in a way that is less costly and more time-efficient than traditional building methods surely must be viewed from a positive stance; and its potential explored.

What’s next from Luyten 3D? Perhaps the completion of this project: the construction of an affordable three- or four-bedroom home…