UWindsor conference highlights benefit of 3D printed homes — but why has adoption lagged?

A conference at the University of Windsor highlighted growing interest in 3D printed construction — a technology supporters say could help change the way homes are built, but one that has yet to see widespread adoption despite the benefits advocates point to.

Researchers, engineers and builders gathered Tuesday to discuss the emerging technology, which uses robotic printers to layer concrete and form building structures. Advocates say the approach could reduce labour demands on construction sites while allowing for more flexibility in how buildings are designed.

Members of the Centre for Cities’ Housing Systems Innovation Lab leadership team Dr. Anneke Smit, Jim TIschler, and Crystal Waddell presented at the recent conference.

The presentation explored housing innovation through a systems lens. While new technologies such as 3D printing can accelerate construction, the broader housing system, particularly permitting, approvals, and regulatory processes, often remains a major bottleneck. Further, all housing innovation needs to be seen through a citybuilding lens that incorporates ecological, economic, and social well-being. 

As housing challenges grow, advancing solutions requires looking beyond construction and toward the systems that shape how and where housing gets built, and how it connects to the other parts of the urban fabric. 

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