World’s first 3D-printed hotel takes shape in Texas

El Cosmico, a hotel and campground in Marfa, Texas, is expanding with the world’s first 3D-printed hotel, using cutting-edge technology from Austin-based ICON and Bjarke Ingels Group. The project includes 43 new hotel units and 18 residential homes, all built using ICON’s massive Vulcan 3D printer, which extrudes a special cement-based material called Lavacrete. El Cosmico’s owner, Liz Lambert, highlights the creative freedom this process allows, enabling the construction of unique architectural elements like curves and domes, which would be costly with traditional methods. The technology also adapts to weather conditions, ensuring durability and scalability for the project.