Australia’s first full-scale 3D-printed home has been completed, marking a significant advancement in addressing Australia’s housing shortage.
Contour3D, a leading Australian 3D concrete printing company, have opened the door to their latest project, Genesis, Australia’s first full-scale 3D printed home in Woolooware, NSW. This cutting-edge duplex demonstrates how 3D printing technology can tackle housing shortages without compromising design.
Genesis combines 3D concrete printing by Contour3D for the ground floor and lightweight modular construction by Versiclad for the second storey. The duplex showcases the immense potential and capability these methods of construction offer by delivering an architectural marvel unlike any home currently in Australia. These innovative methods combine to create a powerhouse for faster build times, less construction waste, design freedom and higher thermal energy ratings, changing how we think about future buildings.
Contour3D’s OPUS printer, designed and manufactured in Australia, constructs faster and more efficiently than traditional methods, delivering creative, freeform construction and architectural freedom. The duplex’s ground floor internal and external walls totalled 1310m2 of printing and utilised ~140T of ContourCrete, which was deposited layer-by-layer. Contour3D’s eco-friendly and high-performing 3D printable mixes currently comprise more than 40% recycled materials.
The second storey utilises Versiclad’s Structural Insulated Wall and Roof Panels, which significantly reduced build time and construction waste. This approach resulted in a sleek, modern appearance with exceptional durability, superior insulation, and high thermal performance. The wall and roof panel systems consist of external and internal skins that are laminated to an insulating EPS core. A total of 96 wall panels and nearly 290 square metres of roof panels were installed in just over six days, and with close to zero construction waste.
Genesis not only has combined technology for the future but is also built with the future in mind. It has an impressive 7.9-star energy rating (NatHERS) for thermal performance, comfortably exceeding the necessary 7. This highlights that the property is energy-efficient, needing minimal heating and cooling. Consequently, it can operate cost-effectively and produce a lower carbon footprint.
Genesis is the foundation of the future of housing design. Its flowing and curved walls, paired with top-tier quality printed layers, create a project that stands apart from anything previously witnessed in Australia. The moment you step through the front door, you’ll be captivated by breathtaking 3D-printed patterns and lofty ceilings extending from the hallway into the living room. These curves epitomise the elegance of freeform residential design, merging cutting-edge housing concepts with contemporary everyday living. The 3D printed walls are further highlighted with CoLab lighting’s LED strip filling the expansion joints from floor to ceiling, showcasing the beauty of the textures, curves and layers.
The second storey showcases the viability and capability of lightweight modular construction within high-end homes. Versiclad’s Innovative Building System demonstrates that design versatility and architectural details are possible within faster timeframes without compromising quality and thermal performance. As you make your way to the upper level, where the lofty ceilings of the front living space and the cosy atmosphere of the bedrooms welcome you, it is impossible to tell that this architectural gem was assembled using lightweight modular construction.
This marks the beginning of a new era in construction, as one of the last major industries to adopt robotics and automation. Together, these construction methods form a part of the solution for addressing future housing in Australia.
“Contour3D undertook the Genesis project to highlight the capabilities of 3D concrete printing technology. Genesis has a high-end finish and design; however, the same technology and methodologies are identical to those used in more affordable or social housing. This project was undertaken to demonstrate that 3D concrete printing on a large scale can be a viable solution for the industry and the housing crisis,” said Nick Holden, founder & CEO.
“Versiclad were thrilled to supply Structural Insulated Roof and Wall Panels,” said Manu Siitonen, general manager, Modular Buildings, Versiclad. “With goals focused on construction speed, zero waste and excellent thermal performance, the capabilities of our products were a perfect fit. An added benefit was that the carpentry team was the only trade required to install our products, assisting in meeting challenges of scheduling and trade availability.
“The end result is stunning and a great showcase of how Versiclad products suit contemporary architecture, and in the case of Genesis, sit comfortably with leading-edge construction technology.”
