3D-printed office building

Dubai has opened the first 3D-printed office building in the world, which was planned to help develop design and construction technology to reduce costs. The arc-shaped building on the Emirates Towers premises will house the temporary office of the Dubai Future Foundation.

The office space covers 250 square metres, while the exterior reflects a futuristic appearance. The design has been conceived to achieve a shift from conventional work environments and also offers space for exhibitions and workshops as well as other events.

For construction, a special mixture of cement was used, as well as building materials, which were designed and made in the UAE and the United States. The materials have undergone several tests in China and the United Kingdom to ensure reliability. New features will help in the reduction of energy consumption, such as window shades to offer protection from direct sunlight.

The building has been printed using a 3D-printer which features an automated robotic arm. The printer, measures 120 feet long and  40 feet wide. Other mobile printers were
located at the construction site to manage the execution of the project and facilitate the printing processes.