Dubai Builds First 3-D Printed Office Building

Image from: http://www.cnet.com/news/dubai-unveils-worlds-first-3d-printed-office-building/

Dubai is known for its unique architecture and structures. So, it is no surprise that this city would be the first to build a 3-D printed office building. Many experts believe 3-D printing is the future of construction.

The office building in Dubai is a fully functional structure. It has electricity, water, air conditioning, and energy-saving amenities. It was printed on a giant 3-D printer measuring 20 feet high and 120 feet long. It took just 17 days to construct and only required about 15 people, including specialists. The cost saving is estimated to be around 50% compared to traditional construction cost.

We can expect to see more of these structures over the next decade. As developers seek cheaper and more efficient methods of building. Right now, the size of the building is limited by the size of the printer. However, larger structures may be built by printing sections and stacking them, similar to Legos. Some of the primary advantages to 3-D printed construction are:

• Time - 3-D construction is estimated to be 50-70% faster than conventional construction.
• Cost - Labor costs are 50-80% less than traditional construction.
• Green - Fewer materials are wasted with 3-D printing, and It is easier to use recycled materials, making these structures more sustainable.
• Custom - 3-D printing allows for more customizable, intricate designs.

3-D printed construction may very well be the future of real estate development. As with any new technology, it will take some time, research, and trial to perfect the method. Those in the real estate development industry should certainly keep a close eye on this technology.