Japanese startup Serendix has developed new technology that combines 3D printing and CNC machining to make housing more affordable. The company has successfully built a house for approximately $37,600, compared to the median cost of a house in the United States which is around $431,000. Serendix CEO Kunihiro Handa stated that their goal is to fully automate the housing industry, similar to what Japan did with the auto industry over 40 years ago.
The 3D printing technology used by Serendix has evolved since its inception in the 1980s. The company utilized concrete to print the walls of its 538-square-foot house, which is larger than the typical tiny houses ranging from 100 to 400 square feet. The design includes one bedroom, one bathroom, a living room, and a kitchen. Serendix claims that their 3D-printed house only took 44 hours and 30 minutes to build.
Apart from being affordable, these small homes are also eco-friendly. They require less energy to run, resulting in lower carbon emissions compared to average-sized homes. While an average-sized home in the US emits around 28,000 pounds of harmful carbon pollution per year, tiny homes emit only around 2,000 pounds.
The construction industry is responsible for 39% of polluting heat-trapping gases globally, making the efficiency of construction time crucial. Serendix’s technology can help reduce negative environmental impact in the construction industry.
Serendix currently has five printers, each capable of constructing 50 houses per year. The company plans to add more printers in 2024, aiming to build 850 houses annually. However, there is no information yet on when this technology will be available in the US.
Overall, Serendix’s innovative use of 3D printing and CNC machining has the potential to make home ownership more attainable for many Americans while also benefiting the environment.
