ICON, a trailblazer in 3D-printed construction, has introduced a suite of innovations that signal a new era in building technology. The company’s latest advancement, the Phoenix™ multi-story robotic construction system, represents a significant leap forward. This state-of-the-art system is capable of printing entire building enclosures, including foundations and roofs. By increasing speed and scale while reducing setup times and operator requirements, Phoenix™ is expected to halve the cost of ICON’s printing processes. For instance, the cost of constructing wall systems with Phoenix™ starts at $25 per square foot, and complete systems, including foundations and roofs, are priced at $80 per square foot. This represents a substantial savings compared to traditional construction methods.
Complementing Phoenix™ is CODEX™, ICON’s comprehensive digital catalog of home designs. CODEX™ features over 60 designs in various styles, including Texas modern and storm resilient, catering to different needs and budgets. This catalog aims to democratize access to high-quality, high-performance residential architecture, making it easier for builders, developers, and home buyers to choose and implement top-tier designs.
Another notable innovation is CarbonX™, ICON’s new low-carbon concrete formula. This sustainable material is designed to work with ICON’s wall systems and robotic methods, offering a low-carbon alternative to traditional construction materials. A recent white paper, co-authored with MIT’s Concrete Sustainability Hub, highlights CarbonX™’s lower environmental impact compared to conventional construction. ICON plans to start shipping CarbonX™ in April 2024 and is also developing future formulations to further reduce its carbon footprint.
The company has also launched Vitruvius™, an AI-driven design system. Vitruvius™ aims to streamline the design and planning process, providing users with customizable home designs, floor plans, and budgets. This system is expected to evolve into a tool capable of generating complete construction documents and permit-ready designs by the end of the year.
In addition to these technological advancements, ICON’s latest initiative includes the Initiative 99™ competition, which seeks to reinvent affordable housing. The competition has garnered submissions from over 60 countries, with winning designs to be featured in CODEX™. Wells Fargo has pledged $500,000 in grant funding to support the construction of these designs in Austin, TX, at Community First! Village.
The company is also expanding its El Cosmico™ project in Marfa, TX, incorporating winning designs from the Initiative 99™ competition. This expansion will feature a mix of hotel amenities and new homes, breaking ground later this year.
ICON’s recent announcements underscore its commitment to revolutionizing the construction industry with advanced technologies and sustainable practices. The company invites architects, builders, and developers to collaborate and harness these innovations to shape the future of building.
