A development of five 3D-printed homes called Corduroy Castles is currently under construction in Olivehurst, California, a rural town in Yuba County located 40 miles north of Sacramento. The homes can be completed in as little as six weeks, compared to traditional wood-frame construction that can take years. SQ4D manufactured the 3D-printing equipment and provided training to developer 4Dify, while Endemic Architecture designed the project.
The 980-square-foot homes feature three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with enough space for a kitchen island. Each home includes carports rather than garages, with residents entering through side entrances. The structures are planned to sell below market rate, with the time and material savings from 3D printing being passed on to buyers.
Endemic Architecture founder Clark Thenhaus describes the development as a “micro-development” approach, contrasting it with larger 3D-printed housing projects. “The micro-development approach feels more sensitive and site-dependent by combining a small lot/infill densification mentality with an existing rural community setting as little family castles,” Thenhaus said. The design includes distinctive hooded windows that reference traditional shingle-style architecture while utilizing the 3D printer’s layering capabilities.
The project is part of Yes to Yuba, a county-wide initiative focused on community development through business innovation and economic growth. Endemic Architecture and 4Dify plan additional collaborations in the region on undeveloped properties that require infrastructure improvements and lot subdivisions. The 3D-printed structures offer enhanced fire resistance compared to traditional construction methods.
Source: archpaper.com