ICON’s “House Zero” Combines 3D Printing, Sustainability

Advanced construction technology developer ICON revealed its next step in 3D-printed homes and it is called House Zero. Located in Austin, Texas, House Zero is intended to spark a new genre of homes that utilize opportunities created by 3D printing. House Zero is the product of ICON’s partnership with Texas firm Lake|Flato Architects and is the first project in ICON’s Exploration Series. The house was designed by Lake|Flato and 3D printed by ICON’s Vulcan construction system. It takes mid-century modernist ranch house aesthetics and incorporates architectural and energy-efficient designs that highlight the benefits of sustainability. It also demonstrates the digital possibilities of additive construction. House Zero features 2,000 square feet of space, three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. It also includes a 350-square-foot, one-bedroom and one-bath accessory dwelling unit. According to ICON’s website, the walls are made with Lavacrete, which is a proprietary cement-like material, steel, and insulation.