Icon, a leader in 3D-printed architecture, is currently constructing what is set to be the world’s first 3D-printed hotel. Located in the Texas desert near Marfa, the project is an expansion of the existing El Cosmico campground hotel. The development will cover over 60 acres (24.3 hectares) and will include a variety of vacation homes, camping areas, and shared amenities. Additionally, it will feature permanent residences designed by renowned architecture firm Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG).
The project, a collaboration between Icon and BIG, aims to push the boundaries of 3D-printed construction while reimagining the concept of desert luxury. The structures, designed with fluid, curvilinear forms, draw inspiration from the natural surroundings. Bjarke Ingels, the founder of BIG, explained the vision behind the project: “Our design for the new El Cosmico is a conversation between El Cosmico’s past and future. By testing the geometric boundaries of Icon’s 3D-printed construction, we have imagined fluid, curvilinear structures that enjoy the freedom of form in the empty desert.”
El Cosmico will feature 3D-printed vacation dwellings with distinct dome-topped designs, as well as tent areas, a central swimming pool, and communal facilities. The homes will have expansive views of the scenic desert landscape, and for those interested, the permanent residences will be available for purchase starting at US$2.29 million. These homes will offer up to four bedrooms and are designed to blend seamlessly into the natural environment.
In addition to high-end vacation homes, Icon and BIG are also focused on providing affordable housing for the local community. Some of these homes will be developed based on designs selected from a worldwide design competition organized by Icon, further emphasizing the firm’s commitment to innovation in housing.
Icon’s proprietary Vulcan 3D-printing system plays a crucial role in the construction process. The same system has been successfully used in previous projects, such as Wolf Ranch and Wimberly Springs. It uses large 3D printers, operated by human overseers, to extrude Lavacrete, a cement-like material, layer by layer to form the structures. Once the basic form is printed, human builders step in to finish the buildings by installing roofs, windows, wiring, and other essentials.
With construction expected to be completed by 2026, the El Cosmico project is poised to be a unique blend of modern technology and natural beauty. By merging cutting-edge 3D printing with the desert’s raw, untouched landscape, Icon and BIG are redefining how architecture interacts with its environment.
Source: Icon
