Grow

Using the concept of Progressive Housing, Grow is a financially sustainable system unique to the 3D printing industry. The Grow process is designed for individuals to improve their housing over time for their changing needs and financial means. This sets Grow apart, ensuring owners a dynamic environment that grows with them. The approach fosters diversity and balance, cultivating a community to thrive for a lifetime.  

Client: Icon / Initiative99 competition entry

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The long-term outlook of progressive housing creates a strong bond among residents, shaping a continuity and shared history that extends throughout their lifetimes. Through specialized programs, residents can acquire knowledge and hands-on experience in 3D printing technology. As the community evolves over time, residents can up-skill and become experts in 3D printing with the potential to revolutionize their outlook on life and relationship with their community.

Grow requires innovation and expansion of the Vulcan system. To improve material efficiency and create installation flexibility, grade beams are printed to support prefabricated concrete slabs. The form and organization of Grow modules creates maximum wall sharing and a plumbing chase or passive ventilation chimney between 3-4 modules. Staging areas at the middle or ends of the print bed, without initial modules, become plazas, gardens, and playgrounds for residents, and are ready for progressive modules. During construction in the staging areas roof parapets are printed onto precast lightweight concrete slabs before they are placed onto a module to create a green roof or terrace. Adjustable bollards are placed to support the Vulcan rails and reused when an owner creates a new progression.

Grow is a multifaceted approach to sustainability and well-being. It incorporates insulating green roofs to optimize indoor climate and facilitate rainwater collection. Architectural elements designed for self-shading, coupled with water-retardant green areas doubling as air filters, make a harmonious connection with nature. There are hubs for community and outdoor activities. Urban farming stations offer residents access to fresh, seasonal produce. Rooftops and gardens provide lush green space. And local flower beds enhance local biodiversity. 3D printed wind turbines and photovoltaic foils harness energy from natural sources, reducing energy costs for the community.

The progressive housing model fits with additive manufacturing to increase financial responsibility. Grow turns need and aspiration into accessible opportunity. Low-income people can enter the housing market at a modest level with a plan for the future. People in recovery, immigrants, or young families can buy into a system that will grow with them. Grow is also a place for empty nesters to scale down while generating both financial returns and positive impact through social impact investing. Other financing mechanisms are available such as subsidies, tax incentives, or public-private partnerships to reduce the cost of construction or provide financial assistance to first-time homebuyers.

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