Local company builds first 3D-printed military barracks in Austin-area

By Laura Figi – AUSTONIA

You know what they say, everything’s bigger in Texas, and an Austin-based 3D-printing construction company is making sure of it.

ICON and the Texas Military Department revealed a partnership this morning, building the largest 3D-printed structure in North America, a 3,800 square foot building that will serve as training barracks and housing for up to 72 soldiers and airmen at Camp Swift Training Center in Bastrop.

Designed by Logan Architecture, which is also responsible for designing ICON’s 3D-printed homes, the structure is more sustainable and designed to last longer than a traditional building. ICON Co-Founder Evan Loomis said the company hopes to scale commercial additive manufacturing globally.

ICON cites the technology builds faster and cheaper than traditional methods and will enable the military to build infrastructure that can support communities during national disasters.